president`scolumn - Westminster College
Transcription
president`scolumn - Westminster College
PRESIDENT’SCOLUMN Dear Member of the Westminster Community, J ane and I want to thank all of you who joined us for the inaugural activities as we embarked on our global journey together to shape Westminster into the ideal liberal arts college for the 21st century. Jane and I are thrilled to be a part of the transformation that awaits us all in the coming years. I assure you we will never take your trust and confidence for granted. We pride ourselves at Westminster on developing leaders of character in a global community, and I believe our approach to a liberal arts education provides the ideal context for this metamorphosis to take place. Our liberal arts education educates students for a lifetime of learning and service, not simply training them for their first job. Our liberal arts education lays a broad and solid foundation so students will think critically and creatively about a range of issues facing our society today and in the future. Our liberal education challenges students to find connections in the midst of disciplinary distinctions and supports their search for understanding. This kind of education is liberating in a sense because it seeks to free students to be thoughtful individuals capable of leading in the larger community and encourages them to reach beyond the classroom to connect academic ideas to the world in which they will serve and lead. Here at Westminster, we are turning education inside out, connecting classrooms in Coulter Science Center to classrooms all around campus, in the Fulton community, and in the world. This active and dynamic process must also be global. Here in America’s heartland we have created that global community, and in this setting, we are able to experience firsthand the challenges and opportunities of world citizenship that our students will face beyond The Columns. At Westminster, we see leadership not as an organizational position or role but a way of being in the world. Our mission is to prepare men and women who will step forward and make a difference in their families, neighborhoods, communities, and vocations. Just as our graduates have done for over 150 years, this new generation will shoulder the responsibility of making the world a better place for others. Here in this community, developing leaders in a global community applies not only to students, but characterizes each individual’s pursuit of personal and professional growth. Here everyone strives to make a difference in the lives of others, and I am inspired each day by our faculty, staff, and students who step up to make our world a better place to live. With them, I am on this leadership journey. I intend to develop as a strategic leader, learning how to coordinate our excellent educational programs with the all-important resources that will help us achieve greatness as a College. Just like everyone else, I will develop through formal study—reading and conferences—but most importantly, through experience and reflection—connecting ideas and action. All members of this Westminster community— trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, and students—will be my teachers. I welcome their encouragement and candid feedback. I am eager to be the kind of President that Westminster College deserves. George B. Forsythe, Ph.D. President, Westminster College Contents Fal l 2008 Features 12 Living the Mission President Barney Forsythe takes the next step in his educational journey. 20 Community Immersion First Lady Jane Forsythe shares her passions for family and Westminster. 24 Classrooms Without Walls From the healing arts, to environmental preservation, to foreign policy…from Fulton, to DC to Swaziland – Westminster students are learning by doing. 28 Alumni Weekend 2008 Westminster celebrated another year of reunions, good friends and memories. 12 20 24 In every issue... 3 Campus News 30 Class Notes 36 Wedding Album new! 38 Baby Blue Jays new! 40 In Loving Memory 44 Last Impression new! 28 Leadership Magazine • Fall 2008 Leadership is published twice a year Submit suggestions and comments to: [email protected] If you are interested in advertising in Leadership please contact the Office of Development at (573) 592-5370 Kris Lensmeyer, Executive Director of Alumni and College Relations Rob Crouse, Director of College Relations Melanie Barger, Alumni and College Relations Coordinator Jeni Whittington, Alumni and College Relations Coordinator Dale Ley III, Designer On the cover: President Dr. George B. Forsythe, Westminster College by John McKeith, photographer. For more information, see story on page 12. www.wes tmins t er -mo.edu CAMPUSNEWS WESTMINSTER ONE OF NATION’S MOST INTERESTING SCHOOLS WESTMINSTER EARNS BEST W hen prospective students pick up the 2008 How To Get Into College Guide, they learn that Westminster has been selected as one of the 372 Most Interesting Schools in America. MIDWESTERN COLLEGE RECOGNITION AGAIN W estminster College is once again one of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to The Princeton Review. The New York-based education services company selected Westminster as one of the 159 institutions it recommends in its “Best in the Midwest” section on its website feature 2009 Best Colleges: Region by Region. Researchers at Newsweek magazine and Kaplan’s, the foremost educational service company in the world, compiled the list based on academic strengths, student body profiles and specialty programs. In the profile on Westminster at www.PrincetonReview.com, The Princeton Review describes “...emphasis on an active and the college environment at engaged style of learning...” Westminster in this way: “ Westminster encourages students to think for themselves, draw conclusions…and change their minds. Through engaging college-wide learning goals, students experiment with ideas, raise questions and critically examine alternatives. That philosophy is just one reason that Westminster offers a unique environment for learning.” U.S.News & World Report has listed Westminster as one of the top 160 National Liberal Arts Colleges in the United States. Other positive assets of Westminster emphasized by The Princeton Review include: “emphasis on an active and engaged style of learning”…“campus that is warm, welcoming and active”…“graduates who have mastered the skills that employers want and society needs.” PRIZE WINNING AUTHOR Final selections are made on meeting the highest standards for academic excellence in the region and enthusiastic student responses to anonymous surveys. “Best in the Midwest” honorees are colleges and universities from the states of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The Princeton Review has also named Westminster as the only Missouri private institution to make the Top Ten list of America’s Best Value Colleges. 2 Leadership FALL 2008 SHARES THOUGHTS WITH STUDENTS P rize winning author Elizabeth D. Samet came to campus this spring to share her thoughts on “Interdisciplinary Education During a Time of War,” which focused on the integrative experience and the importance of reflection during the undergraduate or cadet experience. Samet is best known for her book, Soldier’s Heart: Reading Literature Through Peace and War at West Point (2007), which was named New York Times Notable Book of the Year and one of USA Today’s 10 Books of the Year. She has been a Professor in the Department of English at the United States Military Academy at West Point since 1997. es WESTMINSTER EARNS TOP 50 Best American College by Forbes.com W estminster College joins Princeton, Harvard, Amherst, Stanford and other elite educational institutions on the list of the 50 Best American Colleges for 2008 by Forbes magazine. The only Missouri college or university named to the Top Fifty, Westminster was ranked 39th. This is the first ranking ever by conducted by Forbes and will be an annual list. The report ranks 569 undergraduate institutions on the quality of the education they provide and how much their students achieve. “This new research emphasizes educational processes and outcomes as opposed to input measures used in other studies. Forbes has advanced the national conversation on educational quality. We have always known that what students think of their courses and instructors is important. At Westminster, we pride ourselves on excelling in these areas. This study truly stresses what we believe is important here–that educational processes and student learning matter,” says Dr. George B. Forsythe, President of Westminster. Twenty-five percent of the ranking is based on seven million student evaluations on courses and instructors. Another twenty-five percent of the ranking depends on how many of the school’s alumni, adjusted for enrollment, are listed among the notable people in Who’s Who in America. “Westminster has always been proud of our graduates who are committed to the Westminster mission, leading lives of success, significance, and service,” says President Forsythe. ica’s Amer olleg C t s e B 0 TOp 5 “We have many alumni who are recognized as exceptional leaders of character in their communities so it is no surprise that a significant percentage of Westminster alumni are recognized in Who’s Who in America. At Westminster, our alumni are our credentials.” The other half of the ranking is based equally on three factors: the percentage of students graduating in four years; the number of students or faculty, adjusted for enrollment, who have won nationally competitive awards such as Rhodes Scholarships or Nobel Prizes; and the average amount of student debt at graduation held by those who borrowed. According to Forbes, the best school in the nation this year is Princeton University, followed closely by the California Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Swarthmore College, Williams College and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Other Missouri schools and their rankings include Washington University-146; William Jewell-249; University of Missouri-264; Drury University-304; Truman State University-445; Missouri State-471; St. Louis University-473; Missouri Science and Technology at Rolla-517; and UMKC-539. Forbes is an American publishing and media company which publishes a bi-weekly national business magazine. The magazine is well known for its lists such as the Forbes 400 list of richest Americans. Forbes’ list of America’s Best Colleges 2008 can be found on their web site at www.forbes.com/colleges. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 3 CAMPUSNEWS Making Something Old New Again W hen changes in NCAA basketball regulations made it necessary for Westminster to change the basketball floor at the Historic Gymnasium, Matt Mitchell, Director of Athletics and Men’s Basketball Coach, had a brainstorm. Since the gym floor had to be stripped and painted, the timing was perfect to replace the old bleachers, which had been used by Westminster sports fans for years. These aging bleachers did not meet OSAA standards and were close to becoming inoperational. “ However, Coach Mitchell noticed the wood on the bleachers that they were taking down was still in great shape. He came up with the idea of making something old into something new. The original bleacher wood would be ideal material to build left gum, handles, new lockers for the men’s and women’s locker rooms. We labels and signs from the company in place for authenticity. After conferring with Football Coach John Welty, the two came up with a design they felt would be appropriate, and the work began. Coach Mitchell did the lion’s share with Coach Welty and Women’s Basketball Coach Tracey Braden helping. The results are beautiful, all wood, openfaced lockers with benches in front for seating and “cubbies” below for storing items. The men’s lockers are equipped with hooks, and the women’s lockers are equipped with rods. The entire project took seven days to complete with Mitchell working from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. Coach Braden and her father put the finishing touches on the lockers. “ In addition, one of the alumni donated money for carpet in the locker rooms to complete the makeover. “I enjoyed doing this project immensely,” says Coach Mitchell. “And I worked hard to make certain people would still recognize these as bleachers that had been transformed. We left gum, handles, labels and signs from the company in place for authenticity.” The Athletic Department plans to put one-foot commemorative sections of the bleachers on sale to the general public to raise money for maintenance of the new bleachers in the years ahead. Minimum donation for the commemorative sections is $50. Those interested in purchasing this piece of Westminster history from the Historic Gym should contact Matt Mitchell at 573-592-5301 or [email protected]. 4 Leadership FALL 2008 and this was only the second time for the Historic Gym. The whole process began in early June and was completed July 26. HARDWOODS SPORT NEW NAME W hen the NCAA made a basketball rule change that moved the three point shot line for men from 19.9” to 20.8”, that set in motion an entire makeover of the Historic Gym on the Westminster campus, bringing several major improvements that were long overdue. New motorized bleachers have now replaced the 60-plus year old ones which had become inoperable and were not handicapped accessible. However, the most noticeable change in the building is the beautiful new gym floor finish. Fifteen layers of varnish had been brushed on the floor over the past 25 years and all of that had to be stripped off. Then the floor was sanded down to the bare wood, two new coats of finish put on, followed by painting and then two more coats of finish. Now the new floor has been named for Henry “Hank” Iba, class of ’27 who was an all-state basketball, football and baseball player at Westminster before going on to coach Oklahoma State University to two national basketball titles and the U.S. Olympics basketball team to two gold medals. He is also a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Under the new floor design, a large “W” replaces the Blue Jay mascot that was previously center court and “Westminster College” is emblazoned on the sidelines with “Blue Jays” appearing on the baselines. All floor work was completed by Charles Luebbert Hardwood Floors, Inc. of Jefferson City. Gym floors can be sanded down five times in their lifetime, according to Athletic Director Matt Mitchell, BETA HOUSE – TRADITION GETS A MAKEOVER M embers of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity moved into a new house in August to kick off the 2008-09 school year. While the exterior mirrors the previous house, the new 18,000 square foot interior features a significantly different design and will provide rooms for 40 actives, a kitchen and dining room, social and study space, a house director’s apartment and a chapter room. The Alpha Delta Chapter of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity was established at Westminster College in 1868, and holds the distinction of being the oldest fraternity in continuous operation west of the Mississippi River. The previous Beta House was constructed in 1927 and rebuilt after fire destruction in 1946. The architect for the new house was Bob Cunningham of Cunningham & Associates and the contractor was S.M. Wilson. The Betas are planning a dedication celebration during Alumni Weekend 2009, April 24-26. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 5 CAMPUSNEWS Former British Prime Minister Visits Westminster Sir John Major became the fourth Prime Minister of Great Britain to visit Westminster College on May 6. A rriving on Priest Field by helicopter, Major toured t h e Wi nsto n Chu rc h i l l Memorial and Library in the United States, interacted with Professor Kurt Jefferson’s history class and ate lunch with college officials before returning to St. Louis for a reception and dinner that evening. The evening event at the Saint Louis Women’s Club honored Major with the Churchill Medal in recognition of his years of outstanding leadership and public service. The medal was 6 Leadership FALL 2008 presented by the Board of Governors of The Winston Churchill Memorial and Library in the United States. Following the presentation, Major delivered a speech re-imagining the famous Iron Curtain speech given by Sir Winston Churchill at Westminster in 1946. Major became Prime Minister in 1990 following the resignation of Margaret Thatcher and held the position until Tony Blair replaced him in 1997. NOTED CHURCHILL AUTHOR DELIVERED KEMPER LECTURE D r. Christopher Catherwood, noted Churchill author and Archives Fellow at Churchill College, Cambridge, came to Westminster this spring to deliver the 2008 Kemper Lecture. The topic for his lecture was “Winston Churchill and the Creation of Modern Iraq.” Following the lecture, Catherwood autographed his book, Churchill’s Folly: Winston Churchill and the Creation of Iraq. Catherwood, a Key Supervisor in History at Homerton College Cambridge, is currently finishing a sympathetic biography of Churchill entitled Churchill: The True Story. Established in 1979 by a grant from the Crosby Kemper Foundation, the Crosby Kemper Lectureship provides lectures by authorities on British history or Sir Winston Churchill at the Winston Churchill Memorial and Library in the United States at Westminster College. The lectureship is under the auspices of the British Institute of the United States and the Winston Churchill Memorial and Library. QUAD EXPANDS TO HOUSE GROWING ENROLLMENTS T he West minster Fre sh man experience has been enhanced with a wonderful new addition anchoring the north end of The Quad. The new North Hall freshman dorm stands where Robertson Dining Hall was located previously. North Hall joins Scott, Gage, Rice and Marquess Halls on The Quad, making it possible to house 270 freshmen together. Because The Quad is considered a quintessential part of the Westminster freshman experience, college officials are glad that North Hall will allow all freshmen to live together once again. North Hall Lounge The new hall features nine new living suites with 70 beds and a spacious laundry room. Each suite consists of four double bedrooms and a bathroom. Two single bedrooms are available for resident assistants. One of the unique features of the new hall is the central commons area, which includes a fireplace, large-screen television with gaming hook ups, plenty of soft seating, a large deck and balcony, a public kitchen with a stove, refrigerator and icemaker and a small study room. The lounge was furnished by Jay ’03 and Christine (McCaul) ’03 Howard of IO Metro. This area will be used for student programs and as a place where all freshmen living in The Quad can congregate. A large outdoor courtyard has been designed to allow another place for Quad residents to congregate and enjoy fellowship. North Hall is a project of Gould Evans Architects of Kansas City and contractor Reinhardt/Wilson of St. Louis. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 7 CAMPUSNEWS con g r at ulat ions class of 2 0 0 8 T he 172 graduating Westminster seniors received a double dose of inspiration from Westminster alumni Michael Kim ’87 and Rev. Charles D. Black ’66 at the graduation exercises held in Champ Auditorium May 3. Rev. Black reminded graduates of their responsibility to contribute to our society in his morning baccalaureate address entitled “Clothed in Power.” He is Associate Pastor for Community Ministries at the First Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, GA and is a true example of living the Westminster mission. He serves on numerous service boards and agencies to strengthen outreach to the homeless, foster children, exoffenders and those with HIV and AIDS. He has conducted extensive mission work in Haiti, Jamaica, Africa and the Middle East. As the afternoon commencement speaker, Kim encouraged the graduates to appreciate the advantages they received from a Westminster education and to pursue fields in life that they have a passion to explore. Kim is the anchor for ESPNEWS, the 24-hour sports news network for ESPN and a contributor to ESPN SportsCenter. His father, Peter Kim, was a respected Westminster professor for many years. Photos ( from top left, clockwise): Graduates line up for the Commencement processional; Andrew Chambers and Jenn Sanders were named Seniors of the Year by the Alumni Association; Looking forward to a bright future; Sharing a laugh with lifelong friends; Commencement speaker Michael Kim ’87; Dr. Perry congratulates the Class of 2008; Senior Class President Leila Kekhia presents Associate Professor Bob Hoerber ’75 with the Patricia Kline Liebling Westminster Parents Association Outstanding Faculty Award; President Forsythe challenges graduates to lead lives of success, significance and service; Baccalaureate speaker Rev. Charles Black ’66; The Class of 2008 gathers at Westminster Hall for a group photo. 4 8 Leadership FALL SUMMER 2008 2008 WESTMINSTER COMMUNITY L E A R N S F RO M E AC H OTHER WESTMINSTER STUDENTS HELP T about everything from the economics of S he Westminster community learned wind energy to facebook’s contributions to globalization when more than 100 students from 17 different departments participated in the first ever Westminster Undergraduate Scholars Forum this spring. Classes were suspended so students, faculty, staff, and even some alumni and trustees could come together to learn from the presenters in a formal way about some of the great undergraduate research that is taking place on our campus. This celebration of scholarly achievement featured a combination of paper presentations, poster presentations, multi-media presentations and creative performances. The events were moderated by Westminster faculty, staff, alumni and friends. TORNADO RAVAGED SISTER SCHOOL enators of the Westminster College Student Government Association sent a $500 donation to Union University in Jackson, TN, after seventeen of the university’s nineteen buildings were destroyed by a series of tornadoes last February. The Student Senate Resolution for the donation was sponsored by seniors Joe Bowmaster of Milo, MO and Justin Cave of Overland Park, KS. Union University, a four year institution with 3,300 students, suffered an estimated $40 million in damages and 50 students were injured when the devastating series of tornadoes passed through the Tennessee Valley area. Eighty percent of the campus dormitories were left unlivable by the winds of between 166-200 mph. The dormitories that housed the three Student Commons were completely destroyed. The Westminster student contribution will help to build a new Student Commons at the university. STUDENTS BRING SHAKESPEARE TO FULTON Robert Davis from Hertville, MO, and senior Justin Cave from W Overland Park, KS, came up with the idea ,ofjunior trying to put on a Shakespearean play to reinforce the arts side of a hen an ambitious pair of students Westminster’s liberal arts education, they probably had no idea that it would turn into a community wide project. Their production of “Julia Caesar: A Retelling of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar,” was taken on by the Westminster Student Government Association and The Callaway Arts Council and the modern day adaptation was rehearsed and received four performances at the Historic Fulton Theatre this spring. A cast of 21 student and community members and over 30 crew members assembled the highly successful production. Davis directed the production and Cave assumed the role of producer. This project sparked another creative benefit as Westminster students also pitched in to help with the on-going renovation of the Historic Fulton Theatre, the main project of The Callaway Arts Council. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 9 CAMPUSNEWS F if t e e n B lu e J ay S t ud e n t - At h l e t e s Make the Grade Fifteen Westminster College student-athletes have been inducted into Chi Alpha Sigma, the National College Athlete Honor Society. To be eligible for induction a student-athlete must earn a letter in a varsity intercollegiate sport, achieve at least junior academic standing, compile at least a 3.4 cumulative grade point average by the time of selection, and receive the endorsement of the head coach and chapter advisor. Westminster’s chapter, the Missouri Alpha Chapter, was established in 2002. Since that time, 90 student-athletes have been inducted. 2008 Chi Alpha Sigma Inductees: 10 Student-Athelete Year Ty Cochran Heather Collums Mike Crawford Mythokozisi Dlamini Stephanie Gordon Elizabeth Jansen Chad Lane Zhenia Marova Neil McCutcheon Josh Ray Mike Silver Buddy Sodemann Brian Turntine Jason Warncke Lindsey Woodland Jr. Basketball Jr. Basketball Jr. Basketball Jr. Soccer Sr. Golf Jr. Volleyball Sr. Football Jr. Tennis Jr. Football Jr. Tennis Jr. Baseball Jr. Basketball Jr. Football Jr. Basketball Jr. Golf Leadership fall 2008 Sport City, State High School St. Louis, MOVianney Bartlesville, OK Bartlesville Jefferson City, MO Jefferson City Manzini, Swaziland UWC Kirkwood, MO Kirkwood Bonnots Mill, MO Fatima Perryville, MO St. Vincent Desnogorsk, Russia UWC Springdale, ARGreen Forest West Plains, MO West Plains Florissant, MO McCluer North Chesterfield, MO Parkway West Sullivan, MO Sullivan St. Peters, MO Francis Howell Central Jefferson City, MO Jefferson City Jones and Buxton N am ed 2007-08 Athletes of the Year Although Meaghan Jones and Andrew Buxton completed their athletic eligibility during the 2007-08 soccer and basketball seasons, the honors continue to come in. Jones and Buxton have been named Westminster College Female and Male Athletes of the Year for 2007-08. Jones, a senior midfielder from Pacific, Missouri (Pacific High School), is a Dean’s List student and a member of Chi Alpha Sigma, who graduated with a degree in Chemistry. She started in all 16 women’s soccer matches during the 2007 season, and led the team in assists (9) and gamewinning goals (2). Jones earned all-conference and academic all-conference honors in each of her four seasons and concluded her career with a school-record 33 assists. Buxton, a 6-3 senior guard from Wildwood, Missouri (Lafayette High School), is a Dean’s List student and a member of Chi Alpha Sigma, who graduated with a degree in Business Administration. He was named to the all-conference men’s basketball first team as a senior. Buxton also was a two-time conference player of the week and a D3 Hoops Team of the Week recipient, who led Westminster with averages of 15.9 points and 5.1 rebounds a game during the 2007-08 men’s basketball season. Buxton concluded his career 12th on the school’s scoring chart with 1,093 points, becoming just the 16th Blue Jay male to surpass the 1,000-point plateau in the 93-year history of men’s basketball. Sports Shorts… Follow these stories, your favorite teams and more on the World Wide Web at: www.westminster-mo.edu W E S T M I N S TER A TH L ET I C D E P A RT M E N T LAUNCHES CROSS COUNTRY Two new sports programs have been added back to the 2008-09 Blue Jay roster – men’s and women’s cross country. The new cross country coach, Dave Tobey, brings over 25 years of experience coaching high school and college cross country and track to the job. Most recently, he coached boys cross country at Parkway West High School in St. Louis where he compiled a winning record, won a pair of conference titles and coached an individual state champion. He also held coaching positions at Missouri State University and Kickapoo and Central high schools. Shoot for 2 Both the Westminster men’s soccer and men’s basketball squads tied for second in league play and qualified for conference tournament play… Athletes Give Back Both Westminster student-athletes, through the leadership of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, took an active role in community service in 2007- 08… Westminster Volleys for Grand Slam The 2008 Blue Jay men’s tennis squad won its third consecutive conference championship and eighth title in nine years… WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 11 UNTITLEDA Journey Presidency to the A Lifetime of Teachable Moments 12 Leadership fall 2008 I n 1971, young U.S. Army Lieutenant George B. Forsythe was assigned to the Berlin Brigade and lived with his wife Jane and their first child in the shadow of the Berlin Wall. In one of life’s supreme ironies, as he tells it: “Never in our wildest imagination could we have anticipated that we would be standing in Fulton, Missouri, 37 years later, once again in the shadow of The Wall, no longer the symbol of tyranny but of freedom’s victory over oppression.” Now he has assumed his duties as President of the College where Winston Churchill first described the Iron Curtain descending in 1946—Westminster College, the home of Breakthrough, a sculpture designed from sections of the Berlin Wall. Whatever the twist of fate that brought the Forsythes to Fulton, on August 23, 2008, “Barney,” as he is fondly known by everyone on campus, joined the new freshman class in their traditional walk through The Columns and then returned to Champ Auditorium for the installation ceremony that would officially begin his new educational journey as the 20th President of Westminster College. As he told the Westminster community at that ceremony, “If we are to live the Westminster experience fully, we cannot stand still—we must be evolving as individuals and as a campus community. Together we will make the journey of transformation meaningful and memorable.” Reaching this moment has truly been an evolving journey for President Forsythe. But that is part of his personal philosophy. He believes every life experience…whether good or bad…is a teachable moment and those teachable moments have shaped his personal and professional life. He definitely had a head start on becoming the consummate professional he is today with his first role model right in his own household. His father, General George I. Forsythe, was a country boy from Montana who rose to great heights in his military career, yet never lost his humility, down-toearth personality, sense of humor, or compassion for people. As Barney describes him, “he could light up a room with his charisma and he never knew a stranger.” Barney recalls one life changing event for the Forsythe family when he was starting his own military career as a Second Lieutenant in the Army. His father called him and asked, “If you had the power to change the Army, what would you and your contemporaries want it to be?” The question was not a rhetorical one. His father had received the order from General Westmoreland that President Nixon had placed him in charge of forming and organizing the all volunteer Army. Photo: President Forsythe with Freshman Respondants John Truemper (left) and Gabie Caddell begin their journey together at the Columns. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 13 This lesson in leadership…learning from the troops who are actually on the ground---was not lost on Barney. As Westminster’s President, he exerts a tremendous effort in spite of his full schedule to seek advice from faculty, staff, and students and stay in touch. to leave Westminster prepared to lead wherever they find themselves. He led troops in the U.S. Army. He taught courses in leadership during his years at West Point. He developed the leadership program for the Military Academy in Bangladesh and led the international team that developed and established the National Military Academy in Afghanistan. Other famous leaders President Forsythe particularly admires are Churchill, Marshall and Eisenhower. All three share Barney’s military background; yet he is drawn to He lives the mission of Westminster to create a global them for different reasons. Certainly, Churchill is a natural, community where students can study and live prepared to considering his longtime connection to Westminster and adapt and succeed anywhere in the world. He is the avid the highest level of decision making he was compelled to student, sitting around a table with domestic students make—decisions that to learn about the cultures, shaped the future of histories, and habits of their the world. Couple that international counterparts from with his determination 66 different countries. Recently, to succeed in spite of he and his wife Jane helped seemingly insurmountable Barney’s chief translator (when odds sometimes, and he was in Afghanistan) and his this makes Churchill a family to leave their war-torn truly worthy role model. country and settle in America. Marshall stands as another The Forsythe’s welcomed Sardar great leader of world policy Sherzad, his wife and their three and possessed the vision children into their own home to literally remake the for four months, helping them world map following the emotionally and financially to Photo: Barney & Jane share their passion for a global commuinty while Second World War with make the transition into their helping an Afghan family get established in the U.S. the Marshall Plan. own home in Fulton and helping Sardar find a job. However, Bar ney ’s admiration for Dwight Although he was not a Greek Ei senhower i s even in college, President Forsythe more telling because it is understands what an important rooted in an ability that role the Greek system plays Barney has mastered in Westminster campus life. himself. Eisenhower had He believes strongly in Greek the capability to bring life’s ability to build character. disparate people together Although college Greek life to support a common cause and get the job done. This offers a new, exciting, and more independent life for is a talent that Barney has honed to perfection as Dean of students, making the transition in a controlled environment Faculty at Westminster and now uses quite effectively as means students can secure the guidance and feedback they President. need to be successful, happy, and adjusted. “If we are to live the Westminster experience fully, we cannot stand still—we must be evolving as individuals and as a campus community.” In addition, President Forsythe brings a multitude of other gifts to his administration. In a school where leadership development is not just a catch phrase but a mission, President Forsythe has a lifetime of experience that he can draw on to ensure students remain on track 14 Leadership fall 2008 President Forsythe has also always been deeply involved in the community of Fulton and is a top role model for the Westminster way of civic involvement and community service. “I see Westminster as a center of intellectual vibrance in our community as well as being one of the Photo: President Forsythe takes time to visit with students. most important businesses in town.” Forsythe is a member of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce and the Fulton Development Corporation Board. While he has heavyweight academic credentials, President Forsythe is also an athlete and enjoys following all Westminster sports. He was a Division I recruited athlete in indoor and outdoor track as well as cross country. He was a four-time heptagonal champion in the Army-Navy Ivy League and his mile relay team took second in the East and qualified to compete in the NCAA championship. He used to have a personal passion for squash, but as he puts it, “now that my knees have given out, I’ve discovered golf.” procedures since he had served as Dean of Faculty for several years. Second, they had a candidate who had already fallen in love with Westminster and was ready to carry its banner forward with a passion into the future. More importantly, by appointing President Forsythe as interim president for a series of months, they had the opportunity to observe how he handled the daily responsibilities and challenges of being the President of Westminster. Obviously, he passed with flying colors since the Board of Trustees voted to appoint him as President. It only takes a few minutes to recognize that the College has received a “twofer” as well with the new President. Jane Forsythe is definitely a full partner in the President’s professional and personal life. The Forsythes are a team. They actually have known each other since high school and socialized in the same circles, dating off and on during those years in Hawaii where President Forsythe’s father was stationed. In the second part of his junior year, they went on a double date to prom, but not with each other. Jane was the date of Barney’s buddy. “I see Westminster as a center of intellectual vibrance in our community as well as being one of the most important businesses in town.” He reads widely, ranging from history and historical fiction to non fiction an d contemporar y commentary. His favorite book is Once an Eagle and his latest reading adventures have been I Am Charlotte Simmons: A Novel to Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace…One School at a Time. His musical tastes have changed over the years from folk and beach music to classical and jazz. He and Jane like to dance and appreciate good food and great wine. In fact, Barney’s idea of the perfect evening is sitting around a dining room table with good friends and good spirits. By selecting President Forsythe as the new leader of Westminster, the Board of Trustees received several added luxuries that most presidential search committees never enjoy. First of all, they had a candidate with a comprehensive grasp of Westminster’s mission, objectives, policies, and It was only when Barney returned to Hawaii for Christmas vacation during his first year at West Point that their relationship took a more serious turn. He was going to a holiday party that a West Point friend was throwing on the North Beach of Oahu. He stopped at a stoplight and saw Jane, her mother, and her grandmother in the car next to him. He had not seen her in 18 months, but fate evidently played a role in bringing them together because Jane, her mother, and grandmother had been stuck in an elevator at WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 15 barney’s bio a store in downtown Honolulu or they would never have been sitting at that stoplight. So Barney changes his route and follows them to Jane’s house. In her driveway, he invited her to the beach party, and her grandmother advises her not to go…that this is no way for a young man to ask for a date. Jane’s mother intercedes and says: “Mother, this is George and Betsy Forsythe’s son.” Jane agrees to go to the party, and that night Barney falls in love with her. Dr. George B. (Barney) Forsythe was appointed the 20th President of Westminster College in February 2008. He joined the College in 2005 as Senior Vice President of the College and Dean of Faculty following retirement from the U.S. Army in the grade of Brigadier General after 35 years of commissioned service. Prior to joining the Westminster community, he served at the U.S. Military Academy as the Vice Dean for Education for nine years. President Forsythe’s scholarly achievements comprise over forty publications and presentations, including co-authorship of the book Practical Intelligence in Everyday Life, and he has extensive consulting experience in the areas of higher education and leadership development. He was also involved in the development of the leadership program for the Military Academy in Bangladesh and leadership of the international team that developed the concept plan for the National Military Academy of Afghanistan. 16 16 Leadership Leadership fall fall 2008 2008 However, as he tells it, “it took her another two and a half years to come originally. But circumstances made him the right person at the right time in Westminster’s history to assume this role. As he described the educational journey he has started at his installation ceremony to the incoming class of new students: “With you, I am on a leader development journey. You see, I believe that learning should characterize our entire approach to our common pursuit of excellence, and I pledge to lead by example as a learner. Over the past ten months, I have discovered how challenging this job is. I know I will be developing as a strategic leader, learning how to coordinate “I believe that learning should characterize our entire approach to our common pursuit of excellence, and I pledge to lead by example as a learner.” to the same conclusion.” The couple was married in June of 1970, right after Barney graduated from West Point. One of Barney’s favorite plays is Shakespeare’s Henry V. Considering the turns his life has taken the past year, the parallels with the play are unmistakable. No one including Henry himself dreamed that he would ever become king. The chain of circumstances and events of the day brought him to that role. However, once he assumed the office, he accomplished what generations of his ancestors had been unable to do—unify the crowns of England and France and bring England to greater glory. Barney Forsythe probably never dreamed he would become President of Westminster when he came here our excellent educational programs with the all-important resources that will help us achieve greatness as a college. Just like you, I will develop through formal study—reading and conferences—but most importantly, through experience and reflection— connecting ideas and actions. I expect all members of the Westminster community will be my teachers; I welcome your encouragement and your candid feedback. I am eager to be the kind of President that Westminster deserves. Those who know and work with President Forsythe are pleased that he has chosen to continue his journey of teachable moments here. Under his leadership, Westminster will continue to provide the quality experiences and education for which we are known and have been nationally recognized. N E W W E S T M I N S TER P RE S I D E N T Joins New Students On Their Global Journey A packed house of Westminster community members, representatives from Missouri colleges and universities, family members, and new students gathered in Champ Auditorium August 23 to watch as Chairman of the Westminster Board of Trustees Ron Winney placed the presidential medal around the neck of Dr. George B. Forsythe, making him the 20th President of Westminster Col l ege. President Forsythe had requested that his Inauguration b e comb ined w ith Convocation so that as new president he and the new class of Westminster students could begin their global journey together. President Forsythe received a standing ovation both before and after his address in a huge outpouring of support from the Westminster community and its friends. Longtime Forsythe friend Dan Kauffman delivered the installation address before Forsythe took the podium. Others in the platform party were John Comerford, Dean of Students; George Wolf, Dean of Enrollment Services; Brad Sheppard, College Chaplain; and Rev. Marshall Crossnoe, pastor of President Forsythe’s church, St. Albans of Fulton. “I accept the stewardship of Westminster College and pledge to you my full measure of devotion to this great and historic institution.” “I accept the stewardship of Westminster College and pledge to you my full measure of devotion to this great and historic institution,” President Forsythe told the crowd in his address. “Jane and I are thrilled to be part of the transformation that awaits us all in the coming years. Thank you for your trust and confidence. We will never take it for granted. Working together, we will transform Westminster into the ideal liberal arts college for the 21st century.” President Forsythe’s son Bryant and his wife Margaret were also in attendance. Before the ceremony, President Forsythe joined the new students in walking through The Columns, a long-standing historic tradition for the opening of the new academic year at Westminster. Following the ceremony, all joined President and Mrs. Forsythe for a community dinner celebration at the Mueller Leadership Hall. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 17 JANE FORSYTHE — A NEW FIRST LADY AND NUMBER TWO CHEERLEADER I f you hear the new First Lady of Westminster Jane Forsythe call President Forsythe “Darb,” don’t be surprised…even though it has absolutely nothing to do with his real name. The nickname has stuck from the couple’s first meeting back in September of 1963. Jane was riding one of the buses that transported military children from the base to the schools in downtown Honolulu, Hawaii, on her first day as a new freshman. One of the other children getting on Jane’s bus said to everyone, “Have you met the new boy, Darby?” When the buses arrived at the switching station, students were sorted out and taken to their individual schools and Jane and Barney were put on the same bus where they actually met for the first time. However, Jane never forgot that slip of the tongue by a girl who didn’t know Barney’s name, and the nickname caught on over the years as the couple’s private joke. For years, the two of them ran in the same social circles at school with a group of another dozen students with similar interests. Both of them came from military families. Jane’s father was an Army JAG officer, and 18 Leadership fall 2008 they moved around a great deal. Fortunately, Jane loved moving and enjoys meeting new people. Therefore, it was no problem for her to transition from being an Army child to being an Army wife when she married Barney. But she was never content to only be a stay at home wife and mother. She has always been deeply immersed in community, church, and school activities and that has not changed. Jane and Barney are very involved in the activities of Westminster College, St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, and the city of Fulton. Jane Forsythe was born in Nuremberg, Germany; however, her father’s first assignment was in Berlin in 1947. As a “I’ve already had the opportunity to meet so many fascinating people… all passionate about Westminster and its future.” child, Jane also enjoyed living at West Point and Washington, D.C., when her father worked in the Pentagon. W hen Bar n e y f i r st c am e to Westminster to attend Dr. Lamkin’s inauguration in 2000, Jane was struck by the caring, small campus environment, but she never thought they would see the campus again. Barney was still on active duty and all their family and friends lived on the East Coast so a move didn’t seem plausible at the time. Now she can’t imagine being anyplace else and is very excited to see how Westminster has grown. However, she never envisioned being First Lady anymore than Barney envisioned being President. Jane is pleased to be living in the “Prez Res” as she calls it. “It’s a grand house…designed well for entertaining…and it’s starting to feel like home,” she says. “Westminster truly is a family,” says Jane as she recalls fond memories of one of the first events the couple attended with members of the staff when Barney was appointed Interim President. The two of them were invited to join the employees of the Plant Operations division, and as she put it, “it was a marvelous evening… we got to know them, their children, their parents, and their grandparents.” Jane and Barney’s own family are a great source of joy for them, and Jane recently spent an extended period of time in New York helping out her daughter Jenny and getting to know her new grandson. Jane describes their two children Jenny and Bryant “as introverted as Barney and I are extroverted.” Nevertheless, both children inherited their parent’s love for learning and civic involvement. “It makes for some lively political discussions around the table,” Jane chuckles. Their daughter Jenny is married with two sons Gavin, age 14 and Graham, 8 months. Her husband Frank is a floor manager for an Ace Hardware store in New York. Jenny works as a professional librarian for the Souteastern New York Library Resource Council. Their son Bryant lives on the opposite coast in Eugene, Oregon. An environmental studies major in college, he and his wife Margaret both work for Natura, a company that makes organic products. Barney and she share many of the same likes. She enjoys fine Italian WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 19 wines (a taste she acquired from her brother). She likes to sit around the dinner table with friends and family over good food and drink and converse on the topics of the day. She is an avid reader who enjoys mysteries, historical novels, and memoirs. So when the couple moved to Fulton, Jane. Alaina Havers, and former First Lady Shari Lamkin started a book club of about a dozen members. Although the couple might have thought they would live out their lives with family and friends on the East Coast, the allure of Westminster that attracts so many has garnered two more permanent fans. “Westminster is such a special place,” Jane says. “It has the academic mindset of a big school with a small town family environment. It makes you feel like you are part of something exciting and dynamic…yet comfortable and familiar. And the love and care of the faculty and staff for the students beyond the classroom is remarkable.” As the new First Lady of Westminster, Jane has been surprised by how much interaction Barney and she have with the alumni. “At West Point, the alumni “Westminster is such a special place. It has the academic mindset of a big school with a small town family environment.” come to you. Here at Westminster we go out to them. The outreach is incredible and far reaching…all over the United States. But I love it. I’ve already had the opportunity to meet so many fascinating people…all passionate about Westminster and its future.” Jane Forsythe sees her role as First Lady as being the Number Two public cheerleader for the College and making Westminster feel “like a gracious, hospitable place to those who visit and a great living environment for those who are a part of our community.” She is fulfilling both responsibilities admirably. When the Board of Trustees made Barney Forsythe the new President, Westminster received a bargain–two for the price of one. Anyone who attends a Westminster event or meeting finds out instantly what those in the Westminster community already know: the Forsythes are a team. Both of them believe in the Westminster experience deeply and that belief is shared everywhere they go. DIFFERENCE EVERY GIFT MAKES A www.westminster-mo.edu/giving 1/2 Page Ad “Why am I still here? Because the college just gets better and better! And still in need of funds to maintain the quality that hundreds of Westminster alums, friends experienced have parents over and the years themselves!” -Pat Kirby Assistant to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement : r 1 e 0 1 m s m e Su rienc search e e R p , x s p E i h s n r e t n I n! u F and ries o e h t / ces ge n d e i e l r e w exp s/kno e l f l i i l k l s a ly re 1. App in class to ver o c s i d d and learne d l r o es. w v i t e c h t e lore ersp p p x s E e . ight v i r 2 t c e e h s t rep this s I new p s thesi o p y h t 3. Tes me? or path f zing a m a t llege s o o C m r the inste m t s e ne of of W ooms is r s s t s c a e l asp of “c ster n i e r m e t h s tmosp ile We cademic a h s t W i is a g lls.” ell n a i w w g n t y l l e u l l a o a with its ch llege is equ ities r o f known m, the Co s opportun lu es curricu or the endl ngage, to lop e f e v o n e t d w kno dents ld, and to u t s of s s r r k e r o f f a w o m it e the n–the hall c n e i r tion. so a r c e expe u p d e e hol rts as a w t in liberal a s the be WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 21 Internships at Westminster College offer unique opportunities to extend learning beyond the classroom and into the professional work environment. Westminster students receive a practical perspective and invaluable world experience and at the same time, they are earning academic credit. That explains why over 65 percent of all Westminster students participate in the work-learn experience of an internship during their years at the College. This summer they enjoyed a wide range of internship experiences all over the world. Psychiatric Research in Action One of those fascinating internships was right in Westminster’s back yard. Ilia Bailey from Little Rock, Arkansas, (above) Rachelle Wilson rolled her sleeves up and passed on her appreciation of art to children during her internship at the University of Missouri. (below) Jordan Pauluhn experienced the close knit community of Westminster alumni during his DC internship at the Nationals vs Cardinals game. “The files and patients that I get to read and hear about go beyond any psychology class. These are real life cases with real people who face serious consequences and miraculous recovery.” worked as a research assistant at the Fulton State Hospital, helping several research teams to validate information from medical records, complete coding in databases, and review data sets in files for anomalies. She also attended weekly meetings with all the research team who presented updated reports to staff and psychiatrists of patients’ progress. “The Fulton State Hospital is unique because it has the largest Forensic Center and the only maximum security facility in the Midwest,” says Bailey. “The files and patients that I got to read and hear about go beyond any psychology class. These are real life cases with real people 22 Leadership fall 2008 who face serious consequences and miraculous recovery.” Museum Management & Programs In n ear by Col u m b ia , R ac h el l e Wilson from St. Louis, Missouri, spent the summer interning at the University of Missouri Museum of Art and Archaeology, working with the museum educator, Dr. Cathy Callaway. Her responsibilities were vast and so was the amount she learned. She worked with the children’s program, the healing arts therapy program for the elderly, and the docents, creating docent guides, revising their manual, and giving tours. She helped take down and install new exhibits and clean and store artifacts and prints. She made labels for the shows on display, tagged items that were selected for exhibition with the curators, scanned items for the database with the communications specialist. She also worked with the registrar, maintaining the complete inventory of the museum, figuring monetary values on items for insurance, and handling paperwork and shipping for loan items and new acquisitions. Public Relations vs. Grad School On the western side of the state, Jake Marsh from Sikeston, Missouri, spent the summer working in Kansas City as a Regional Public Affairs Coordinator for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. As Jake summarized the summer, “sometimes it is more important to figure out what you don’t want to do. After this internship I realized that I cannot survive in a profession that does not give me full creative license.” This internship actually helped Jake decide to take his career path in a different direction. Thanks to having the opportunity to be out in the work world, Jake has decided he does not want to work in public relations as he originally thought and instead he will go to graduate school and pursue a career as an English professor and writer. It was also his “chance to test drive a new lifestyle in a big city” and he discovered he loved living in Kansas City. Think-Tank Central In seeking out of state internships, Westminster students often focus on Washington, D.C. where a vast number of opportunities are available. Jordan Pauluhn from Overland, Missouri, spent a remarkable summer working on foreign policy research at the Heritage Foundation, a well known conservative think tank in Washington, D.C. His research centered on the United Nations, human rights organizations, the international criminal court, the International Court of Justice, and other international bodies and treaties. “The internship has opened my eyes to the world of public policy and the amount of research that goes into even the smallest amount of literature and education,” says Pauluhn. “It has furthered the sound understanding I have of research and strengthened my commitment to personal values.” Soil Hydrology Moving westward, Jason Williams from Jamaica completed a soil science internship at Cedar Creek, a research site run by the University of Minnesota in Bethel, Minnesota. Cedar Creek has a great reputation for ecological research with many papers cited in biology text books written at the research center. Many ecologists study at Cedar Creek because it is “The internship has opened my eyes to the world of public policy and the amount of research that goes into even the smallest amount of literature and education.” one of the only places where three biomes meet. Biomes are the world’s major communities, classified according to the predominant vegetation and characterized by adaptations of organisms to that particular environment. (above) Jason Williams put the “dirt” in the dirt during his research internship in soil hydrology at the University of Minnesota at Bethel. Ja so n wa s i nvol ved i n t h e so i l hydrology project which attempts to answer how fast contaminants move through the sandy soil at Cedar Creek and what role plants play in taking these contaminants out of the soil and eventually ground water. He introduced the contaminants to the 15 plots, took measurements to assess WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 23 the effects, and maintained the plots. “This internship has really inspired me to want to learn more about research of this type and graduate school has now moved much further up on my priority list,” says Williams. In fact, he has now initiated his own independent project on the topic of “Obtaining the Maximum Amount of Biomass from Prairie for Biofuels Using the Least Amount of Nitrogen.” Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Andrew Daniels from Quincy, Illinois, had a great summer experience working in fire education in California for the Student Conservation Association in cooperation with the Burro of Land Management. His major job was to do house assessments for forest fire education projects. He used a data collecting software called Red Zone that collects data firefighters can use in case of a forest fire. He worked in the two remote towns of Potrero and Julian where previous threatening fires had been located. He also worked in the Cal Fire booth at the San Diego Fair, helped with the Forest Service/ BLM booth at the Temecula Wine and Balloon Festival and participated in a Chipping Day sponsored by the Greater Fire Safe Council of San Diego County. Socioeconomic Policy Yet Westminster internships are not just confined to the United States. In “This experience has reconfirmed my belief that I want to work with people, for people, and for the betterment of their communities, no matter where they are located.” (above) Andrew Daniels helps to make fighting California forest fires safer. 24 Leadership fall 2008 (above) Alicia Ware was in awe of the contrast between the landscape in Swaziland and it’s natural wildlife with her native Tulsa, OK. keeping with the global environment fostered at Westminster and the large number of international students in the student body (almost 13 percent), many students seek internships in other countries. This summer Felipe Cordero worked at the Centro de Estudios para el Desarrollo (Center of Studies for Development), a public policy research center in his home country of Chile. His experiences were wide ranging. He handled the invitations of high profile business people and politicians to a conference and Christian Democrat representatives and senators to a public-private dialogue project. He took notes at a national encounter of mayors and city councilors and coauthored an official report about it. He also updated the news section of the center’s web site. He traveled around the country interviewing cooperatives of fishermen, farmers, and transport services to assess existing policies and to discover what new policies are needed to benefit them. “This internship allowed me to immerse myself again in the socio economic reality of my country and made me want to work for the betterment of my people,” says Cordero, who has lived abroad since 2003. “Professionally, the internship allowed me to learn to innovate and improvise and has given me the confidence to talk to important people in Chilean politics. This experience has reconfirmed my belief that I want to work with people, for people, and for the betterment of their communities, no matter where they are located.” Conservation & Preservation Sithembile Mabila obtained an internship at the Environmental Education Center of the Mlawula Nature Reserve in her home of Swaziland, which researches and implements techniques to conserve and preserve nature in the area. Mabila worked with endangered species and medicinal species, growing them and finding out their uses in the traditional medicine sector from the community’s herbalists. She was also involved in researching the pollution of the Mlawula River that passes through the reserve by the nearby sugar cane association and railway station. She has also been involved in the development of a better waste management plan for the nature reserve. Take a Friend Home Other Westminster students have spent part of their break, getting out into the world through Westminster’s exciting Take A Friend Home program. Under this program, domestic students spend three weeks of their summer break visiting the homes of international octopus, traditional barbecues, and snorkeling…all customary activities in this island paradise. The Wild–Up Close Thulani Shabangu took his friend Alicia Ware from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to his home country of Swaziland. He took her to his former high school where they taught two science classes. Schools there are much better attended by males than females because most girls never finish because of the high Westminster students are not just challenged as scholars, but challenged to make a difference in the world during college and then later in life. students with their transportation cost paid by the College. Then during school year breaks, the international students go home with the domestic students. Members of the Westminster College Board of Trustees make this cross-cultural learning experience possible. Island Living This year one of the pairs was Matthias McCurren from Jefferson City, Missouri, and Mohamed Shakir who exposed Matthias to a variety of experiences in The Maldives. They visited eight islands in different parts of the country. Matthias spent a week at Mohamed’s house, experiencing the food and culture of the urban city of Malé. The second week they went to the Archipelago and lived among the people with a local family friend of Mohamed, exploring historical sites and island life. Matthias was treated to several diving trips so he could see the underwater beauty that The Maldives is renowned to possess. He enjoyed palm tree climbing, spear fishing for pregnancy rate in the country and because they are expected to look after their younger siblings at home while the male children become the breadwinners. Many young people care for themselves in the country because they have lost both their parents due to AIDS. He also brought her to his UWC college, Waterford. Probably the most entertaining part of the visit for Alicia was the trip to the game reserve in the wild. She had never seen a white rhino, black rhino, elephant, lion, or pumba (warthog) in the wild. He also made certain she spent a day or two with relatives of his with different ways of life and status so she would have a variety of experiences. Tradition & Culture Eyob Demeke took his friend Rickey McBride from Little Rock, Arkansas, to his home country of Ethiopia. Rickey immediately noticed that Ethiopia is not the stereotypical picture of poverty that Western people envision. As he describes it, “It is rich in culture, Alicia Ware (right) spent time with Thulani Shabangu’s relatives during her Take a Friend Home experience in Swaziland. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 25 tradition and well over two thousand years worth of history.” While there, Rickey visited the huge capital city of Addis Ababa where Eyob lives, the village of Ejere, the Jema River, and the cities of Dessie, Lalibela (the holiest city in Ethiopia with its eleven rock hung churches from the 13th century), and Gondor (which is the site of the beautiful palaces of 16th century emperors). While there, Rickey learned gursha, the art of hand feeding, where someone feeds another person, and many words in the Ethiopian national language of Ambaric such as conjo (delicious) and baka (satisfied). He discovered the greeting is usually done with kisses and a conversation and that to welcome guests, Ethiopians will kill a sheep, make a large bread called dabo, and hold a traditional coffee ceremony (since coffee is originally from Ethiopia). He found that Ethiopian food is served with the national flat bread, injera, and this bread is used as the utensil to eat the other food. “Ethiopians are very generous people,” says Rickey. “I was very impressed with the country and wouldn’t mind making the trip again.” Desert Farming Ian Blackmon from Sorento, Illinois, visited Hassaan Sipra and his family in Muscat, Oman. Getting to Oman was half the battle because the two were constantly being held up at security check points as Hassaan was singled out. Once they reached Muscat, the door opened to a wealth of new experiences for Ian. He was taken to luxurious resorts, a large scale farming operation, a movie, the Al Hoota Cave, the desert, the Grand Mosque, and the Green Mountain, just to name a few. Ian made some observations 26 Leadership fall 2008 (above) Hassaan Sipra (left) took Ian Blackmon (right) home to Muscat, Oman and introduced him to many cultural experiences. on his journey: Gas is cheaper than water there. Most of the houses are surrounded by a low wall with little grass. Everything closes for a siesta at 1 p.m. to miss the hottest part of the day and allow for afternoon prayers and then opens up until much later than in America. Buildings must meet the architectural standards set by the Sultan so most of them are dazzling white and in the medieval style. The souq or market street is entirely covered, narrow, and jammed with shops, and one should never make eye contact with a merchant unless a purchase is intended. Farm crops are much more varied than in America. Movie theatres serve wonderful caramel corn and have reserved seats (he saw Iron Man). Tea is served with an abundance of sugar and milk. Mascat has its own Wal Mart knock-off called Lulu’s. He experienced firsthand the famous Omani hospitality, which includes eating Omani style…with the right hand out of a huge platter. “I think it is particularly apt that I happened to be reading Stranger in a Strange Land as I remember my time in Oman,” says Blackmon. “Not because Oman is a strange land but because I can relate to the sort of understanding and knowledge it takes to ‘grok’ the customs and habits of other peoples. Each pair of Westminster students that learns a little more about each other’s cultures are two more people likely to be the stellar world citizens we are going to need in the coming decades.” Ian’s words truly summarize the Westminster goal for its students… preparing “the stellar world citizens” needed for the future. Westminster i s n o t j u st ab o u t t h e e x c i t i ng discoveries inside the classroom, but those outside as well. Westminster students are not just challenged as scholars, but challenged to make a difference in the world during college and then later in life. Having global experiences through internships and programs like Take A Friend Home brings out the best in them and makes them able to adapt and lead wherever they find themselves when they leave The Columns. s ter turn g s n i m t s n We e thinki g e l l o c your ut. inside o Turn your college thinking inside out. Inside the classroom, outside the classroom – at Westminster College, you’ll engage in every aspect of your college experience. This is an active education, a whole education, enabling you to become your very best – as a scholar, as a leader, as an engaged citizen in a global world. Come – get involved, try new things, meet new people, learn and grow as never before. Engage in a full college experience. Inside the classroom. And out. To learn about Westminster College, inside and out, visit us at www.westminster-mo.edu, or call our Admissions Office at 1-800-475-3361. ma fo r r k ap y ou r il r 2 cal 4 -2 e 6 nda , 2 0 r 0 s 9 ! Alumni W E E K E N D w e s t mins t e r coll e g e ap r il 1 8 - 1 9 , 2 0 0 8 C lockwis e f r om t op l e f t : C lass of 1 9 5 8 c e l e b r a t e s t h e i r 5 0 t h R e union C e l e b r a t in g t h e 1 s t g r adua t in g class of wom e n a t W e s t mins t e r R e union C lass of 1 9 8 8 J ack M a r s h all ‘ 5 3 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A c h i e v e m e n t A wa r d S co t t W ilson ’ 74 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A c h i e v e m e n t Awa r d A nn e ( M c I n t os h ) S c h n e id e r ’ 8 5 – 2 0 0 8 R e ml e y C e n t e r A wa r d D a v id S t ubbs ’ 6 8 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A c h i e v e m e n t A wa r d P aul K a v anau g h ’ 8 1 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A c h i e v e m e n t A wa r d Mark Keen ‘ 6 9 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A c h i e v e m e n t A wa r d P r e sid e n t F o r s y t h e add r e ss e s alumni a t t h e sa t u r da y di N n e r 28 Leadership fall 2008 ful t on missou r i C lockwis e f r om low e r L e f t : D r . B ill P a r r is h and D r . A ud r e y R e ml e y s h a r e W e s t mins t e r h is t o r y wi t h alumni J im B r e x l e r ‘ 74 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A c h i e v e m e n t A wa r d L au r i e M c F a r land , Tom M c F a r land , K a t h y ( H e r v e y ) S idd e ns , G r e g Ric h a r d e njo y t h e i r C lass of 1 9 8 8 R e union a t A r r is P i z z a P h o t o D ispla y & Gall e r y Talk b y P h o t o g r ap h e r and A lumnus D a v id S pi e lman ’ 7 2 1 0 t h A nni v e r sa r y of t h e W e s t mins t e r Educa t ion P r o g r am – P r of e sso r L inda A ul g u r , K im W e dd e ‘ 0 6 , A nd K a t e S pano ‘ 0 7 D e nnis J am e s ’ 5 8 – 2 0 0 8 A lumni A wa r d of M e r i t P r e sid e n t F o r s y t h e v isi t s wi t h alums a t t h e A lumni D inn e r & A uc t ion N early 500 alumni and friends came back to campus for Westminster’s Alumni Weekend activities April 18 & 19. Although the golf tournament was rained out and threatening weather prompted the Saturday afternoon patio party to be moved inside the Mueller Leadership Hall, no one seemed to mind and some lingered long after the music and snacks ended to catch up and relive the great memories of Westminster. Everyone was excited to be back on campus and enjoyed touring the new dining hall, dorm and Beta house. Westminster historian and former professor Bill Parrish gave a standingroom-only lecture on the differences between the Davidson years of the 50s and Westminster today. Attendees also crowded in to hear the observations of alumnus David Spielman ’72, who chronicled life amidst the devastation in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina through a photo journal. The Alumni Achievement awards were presented to James Brexler ’74, Paul Kavanaugh ’81, Mark Keen ’69, Jack Marshall ’53, David Stubbs ’68 and Scott Wilson ’74. In recognition of service to the Westminster Alumni Association, Dennis James ’58 received the Alumni Award of Merit. Anne (McIntosh) Schneider ’85 was honored with the Remley Women’s Center Award at a special reception on Friday afternoon. Attendees from the Class of 1958 were inducted into the Order of the Golden Legion and many “Old Guard” members returned to welcome with them. Members of the President’s Club were treated to a special reception with President and Mrs. Forsythe. The Education Association hosted a reception to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Education program. The weekend also included a special Westminster women’s exhibit, a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the first female graduating class at the College, and a Sorority Brunch. Save the Date!! April 24-26, 2009 Planning for Alumni Weekend 2009 is already underway! Major celebrations include the Beta House Dedication, Delt 70th Anniversary and SAE 60th Anniversary. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 29 ALUMNIALBUM 1 2 3 6 4 7 5 8 9 ALUMNI EVENT PHOTO ALBUM 1. Perhaps the Alumni in Northwest Arkansas knew that fellow alum David Gearhart ‘74, would be named Chancellor of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, so they scheduled a gathering in Rogers, AR to celebrate! Pictured left to right are: Heather McIntire ‘95, Jane Gearhart, David Gearhart ‘74, Laura Gentry, John “Cam” Gentry ‘87, Michelle Watson ‘88 Wright, Larry Wright and Sean Keith ‘90. As former SGA presidents at Westminster, Keith estimated that he would succeed Gearhart as Chancellor in 2024! 2. After a hot day of golf Stuart Eastman ‘97, Alex Curchin, Mike Reid ‘68 and Mike Grote ‘97 were recognized as the first place team at the 16th Annual Dick Ault Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament. 3. Bob Stufflebaum ’55, Kris Lensmeyer, Executive Director of Alumni & College Relations and Trustee Ken Meyer enjoy catching up at the Springfield event. 4. Prospective student Tyler Pagano, center, was being “rushed” hard by Kirk Johnson ‘92, Angelo Pagano ‘93, Ryan Rendleman ‘93 and George Mahn ‘92 at the Dallas Alumni/Prospective Student Party at the Dallas Country Club, hosted by David Shuttee ‘68. 5. The active DC Alumni Club hosted several events over the summer for students interning in the area, including a Summer Fiesta with President and Jane Forsythe. Jenna Manning ‘06, Sara Weir ‘04 DC Club President and Ryan Dillon ‘06 enjoy the event. 6. Brooke Melson ‘99 scheduled an alumni luncheon at Chez Zee - An American Bistro in Austin, TX on March 12, 2008. Joining in the festivities, left to right, are Michael Alfultis ‘95, Stephen Swan ‘60, Daniel Diedreich (VP of Institutional Advancement), David Schaeffer ‘69, Hatsy Schaeffer, Melson, and Emily Blake ‘94. 7. Westminster alumni in East Central Florida met for a Luncheon at Antonio’s Pasta Grille in Clearwater, arranged by Jim Furner ‘64, to honor the 100 year old Beta Theta Pi Retired Housemother, Martha Kochheim. Seated, left to right, Dana Farlin ‘87 Koay, Mom Kochheim, Robert Mattei ‘79, Jim Furner ‘64, Peter Martino ‘90, and Fred Fisher, retired vice president for business affairs at Westminster. 8. Kurt Fiegley ‘73, Dala (Reuter) Freesmeier ‘00, Susie (Gerhart) Stuerman ‘87, John Morse ‘92 and Felig Abraha ’06 celebrate the holidays at the St. Louis Gathering hosted by Edward Jones. 9. President Forsythe and Randy Johnson’74 get a chance to meet Tony LaRussa at the Cubs/Cardinal Game in Chicago. 30 Leadership fall 2008 CLASSNOTES 1 5 2 3 1937 1969 Dr. Mark Boyer and wife Harriet Jim Armstrong is the Editor 1950 Rex Friedman retired in June celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on September 16, 2007. Keith Williams is the President of Good Earth Tools in Crystal City, MO. 6 7 1953 Jack Marshall [1] received the Settler’s Award at the 103rd Annual Kingdom of Callaway Supper on March 18, 2008. The award honors those who move to Callaway County and make a marked contribution to the county. 1958 Bill Smith is a Director with Bell Atlantic in Washington, DC. 1960 Gary Zellinger retired in 2003 as Vice President of Episcopal Homes Foundation. 1965 Dr. Gary Forrest [4] received the University of North Dakota Alumni Achievement Award on March 14, 2008. Forrest is the Executive Director with Psychotherapy Associates PC and is a licensed clinical psychologist, author, educator and a national expert in drug and alcohol addiction. Forrest has published numerous books in the area of chemical dependency and personality disorders and has made appearances on national television talking about addictions. 32 Leadership fall 2008 4 1. Jack Marshall ‘53 receives the Settler’s Award from Bob Wright 2. Bill ‘58 & Sabra Smith 3. David ‘61 and Connie Ross 4. Dr. Gary Forrest ‘65 5. Jim Middleton ‘67, Dan Sheehy ‘65, John Matherly ‘67 and Bill Scruggs ‘67 reunite for a Beta Luncheon in Colorado. 6. Clay ‘70, Sally and John ‘06 Logan 7. William, Abby, Sophia and John, children of Newell ‘82 and Beth Boughton and President of NowWhatJobs.net Inc. in Woodstock, IL. 2008 as the Chief Planner with Arkansas State Parks in Little Rock, AR. Gregg Goodner is the President University in St. Louis, MO. He is an Insurance Examiner with the State of Missouri Department of Insurance. 1974 Gene Allen is the Director of Internal Audit with The Boler Company in Itasca, IL. Chris Meek is a war crimes trial was honored at the St. Louis New England Financial’s annual recognition banquet as the Securities Sales Leader for 2007. lawyer in the UN International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia, residing in the Hague, Netherlands. Meek represents his client in the Srebrenica case. Meek is still involved in his private practice, Meek & Battitori, in Baxter Springs, KS. 1970 1975 of Hytrol Conveyor Company in Jonesboro, AR. Leonard “Fritz” Sander Don Tomnitz was awarded the Mexico (MO) Chamber of Commerce’s G. Andy Runge Ambassador Award on January 18, 2008. Tomnitz is the Vice Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of D.R. Horton Inc. in Arlington, TX. 1972 Dr. Jim Schmuck is the Provence Commander for Kappa Alpha Order National Fraternity. 1973 Ted Greenhouse and his water polo team were honored with a Sports Achievement Award at the 2008 Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on February 10, 2008 at the University Plaza Convention Center in Springfield, MO. Greenhouse led the men’s team to a 2007 Division III National Championship as Head Water Polo Coach at Lindenwood Tim Lamkin is the Director of Business Development with Associates Solutions, Inc. in Lenexa, KS. 1977 Chris Eubank is a Regional Manager with RMTS LLC in Kansas City, MO. Douglas Van Camp is the Owner/Managing Member and an Attorney with Van Camp Law Firm LLC in Jefferson City, MO. The law firm concentrates in the areas of worker’s compensation, personal injury and divorce. CLASS NOTES PHOTO POLICY Photographs for the Class Notes section of Leadership Magazine are encouraged. Pictures must be accompanied by a list of those in the photo and cities and states of residence. Emailed photos should be taken in at least 300 dpi resolution in tif or jpg format. Submit photos for class notes electronically to: [email protected] or by mail to: Class Notes Office of Alumni and College Relations Westminster College 501 Westminster Ave Fulton, MO 65251-1299 Deadline for next issue is Dec. 8, 2008. 1978 Wesley Burns is an Investigator with the Federal Public Defender’s Office - Southern Illinois Division in East St. Louis, IL. Kerry Kimble retired from the US Army after 30 years of service. Kimble served for 11 years on active duty and 19 years in the Reserves and achieved the rank of Colonel. Robert Kranz is the Chief Financial Officer with B2B TV in Los Angeles, CA. involved in the development of ports and special economic zones. 1985 Diane (Schulte) Lewis was promoted to Senior Manager of Database Operations with Maritz Inc. She resides in Fenton MO with her husband Alan and two daughters, Kathleen Jean (age 11) and Elizabeth Leslie (age 9). 1986 Jim Bowlin is the Chairman and Attorney/Owner of Paul F. Kavanaugh, PC in Kansas City, MO. CEO of Keystone Mutual Insurance Company in Chesterfield, MO. Keystone was granted a license on December 31, 2007 to provide professional liability insurance for Missouri physicians. Bowlin is joined by four other Westminster alumni, Dr. Jerry Kennett ‘69, Dr. Joel Hassien ‘86, Dr. Jerry Middleton ‘59 and Dr. George Parkins ‘67, who serve on the Board of Directors. 1983 Mark Reichman is Vice 1980 Rev. Caldwell is a Pastor with Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in St. Louis, MO. 1981 Paul Kavanaugh is an Greg Harris is the Vice President with Visitor Services at the National Building Museum in Washington DC. 1984 Cathy (Myers) Aubrecht has been selected as Hononegah High School’s (Rockton, IL) “Those Who Excel” nominee for classroom teaching and will become a candidate for the statewide “Those Who Excel Teacher of the Year Award.” Aubrecht has been an English Teacher at Hononegah for the past 14 years. Karl Swanson is the Vice President of Dubai World Company in Moscow, Russia. The company is President of Institutional Equity Research with Sanders Morris Harris in Houston, TX. 1987 Dr. Kevin Kirkpatrick is the Owner of Image Enhancement, PC in Albuquerque, NM. Kirkpatrick specializes in the treatment of all phases of hair loss and hair restoration. Dana (Farlin) Koay is a Marketing Coordinator with Ross Realty Group in Clearwater, FL. 1988 Blake Bradshaw is the OEM Sr. Sales Manager with Honeywell Imaging and Mobility in St. Louis, MO. 8. Case, Janie and Camille, children of Rob ‘83 and Allison Wetzel 9. Senn and Graham, Children of Scott ‘86 and Robin Boswell 10. Lily, Katie and Caroline, children of Oakes ‘86 and Michelle Briscoe 11. Andrew, Elizabeth, Anna and Olivia, children of Philip ‘88 and Erin Boeckman 12. Ben, Abigail and Allen, children of Hal ‘90 and Kathy Oakley 13. Avery, Andrea, Max, Griff ‘92 and Riley Kerstine 14. John ‘93, Ann, Ray, and Zoe Fieberg 11 Stacy (Hampton) Chapman is a History Teacher with the Long Beach (CA) Unified School District. 1989 Heather (Triplett) Biehl is a Vice President with BBN Technologies in Cambridge, MA. Biehl will establish an Intelligence Program Office to guide the expansion of BBN Technologies into the intelligence community. Bill Brock is an Agency Manager with Allstate Insurance Company in Raytown, MO. Dr. Mark Taylor is the Executive Director of Eagle’s Nest Children’s Home in Clinton, TN. Taylor is also Co-Founder of Koinonia Associates, LLC, a publishing company that publishes books on education, Christian life, church and similar topics. 1990 Tricia (Frerichs) Becker is a Vice President and Senior Credit Review Officer with Bank of America in St. Louis, MO. Becker lives in Imperial, MO with her husband Tony and son, Ryan (age 6). 8 Debbie (Brandt) Lunyou owns a CPA firm in Piedmont, MO where she resides with her husband John and children Michelle (age 10), Tyler (age 6), Elaina (age 6), and Luke (age 4). 9 Bill Truitt is a Manufacturer’s Representative with EPM in Macon, MO. 1991 Kevin Gore is a Partner in the accounting firm of Baird, Kurtz & Dobson in Tulsa, OK. 12 10 13 14 WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 33 CLASSNOTES 15 16 17 Darren Kay is the Executive Counselor with Kappa Alpha Order National Fraternity. 18 John Soucy is the Director of the 20 Alticor in Grand Rapids, MI. Dave Thomas is a Regional Sales 1995 1992 Dave Dillon served with the Missouri National Guard in 2006 as an Imbedded Trainer with the Iraqi National Police, receiving the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. Dillon is Vice President of Media Relations with the Missouri Hospital Association. Blake Downs is a Business 1993 Carson Duchatschek is a General Sales Manager with Koener Distributor, Inc. in Effingham, IL. 1994 Dr. Bryan Foote is a Dentist/ Owner of Bryan G. Foote, DDS. in Columbia, MO. Major Todd Johnson [17] was decorated with the Combat Action Badge, which is awarded to soldiers who personally engage, or are engaged by the enemy. Johnson is currently serving as the Plans Officer, US Army Engineer Leadership fall 2008 Cary Justice is an Attorney with Paige Scott is the Senior Vice Development Executive with American Power Conversion Government & Education Sales Team in West Kingston, RI. Downs resides in Warrenton, VA with his wife Sheri and children Sydney, Brett and Colin. 34 Division, Gulf Region, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq. Friends of Medicine Program with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, MD. Manager with Shelter Insurance Companies in Edmond, OK. 19 15. Charla (McIntyre) Fields ‘93 and children Adeline and Eleanor 16. Gage and Bailey, children of Jason ‘94 and Erin (Conlan ‘94) Gottman 17. Major Todd Johnson ‘94 18. Heather McIntyre ‘95 and her 2 dogs 19. Jeff Arms ‘97 and Janice Crawford 20. Aleksa and Kelby, children of Arthur and Ardita (Maluka ‘97) Roark President of Retail with Metcalf Bank in Kansas City, MO. Jon Schneider has been elected President of the Kansas City Security Traders Association. Schneider is attending the Securities Industry Institute conducted at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and is sponsored by the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association. 1996 advisory industry for the 2007 calendar year and was awarded the President’s Club Achievement Award. Schaper was also promoted to Vice President with US Bankcorp Investments and Insurance in Granite City, IL. Jeff Stubbs is the Store Manager in floor covering with SherwinWilliams Paints in Columbia, MO. 1999 Thad Stubbs is the Assistant Provence Commander for Kappa Alpha Order National Fraternity. 2000 Emily Alexander is the Manager of Financial Reporting with SAVVIS, Inc. in Town & Country, MO. Mike Grote is the President and Founder of Grote & Associates (GA2), a political and governmental affairs consulting firm, in Columbia, MO. Michelle (Miller) Fassler is a Vocational Specialist with Community Alternatives in St. Louis, MO. 1997 President of Membership with the Kansas Chamber of Commerce. Jeff Arms [19] is a Teacher at Diamond High School in Anchorage, AK. Trey Davis was promoted to Vice President of Governmental Affairs with the Missouri Chamber of Commerce. Serena Lowe is the Executive Director of Health Policy with EMD Serono, Inc. in Washington DC. Ardita (Maluka) Roark [20] is an Attorney with Missouri Department of Transportation in Jefferson City. Roark resides in Holts Summit, MO with her husband Aruthur and children, Aleksa Lillain (age 3) and Kelby Maluka (age 1). 1998 Tyler Schaper [23] has been recognized as a leader in the financial Bob Featherston is the Vice Jennifer (Whitaker) Schaefer was inducted into the SLIAC Hall of Fame between games of a basketball doubleheader in the Westminster Gym on February 8, 2008. While at Westminster, Schaefer earned four varsity letters in both volleyball and basketball and was a three-time all-conference performer in basketball, earning first-team honors, while setting three school records and finishing her career in the top five in scoring (4th), rebounding (3rd) and assists (3rd). During her four years, Schaefer collected all-league honors four times and was a first-team selection as a freshman, junior and senior. She earned conference Newcomer of the Year honors as a freshman, and was the SLIAC Player of the Year as both a junior and senior, when she earned back-to-back Westminster Female Athlete of the Year awards. Kevin Slattery is an Environmental Specialist and Project Manager specializing in ecosystem restoration with the Corps of Engineers in St. Louis, MO. Sean Wright is the Director of the Pete Hanna Center with Samford University Athletics in Birmingham, AL. 2001 Bradley Ervin is the CEO and Chief Compliance Officer of Overland Park Surgery Center in Overland Park, KS. 2002 Josh Hanley is an Account Manager with GE Capital Solutions in St. Louis, MO. Kristen Norton graduated Administrator with National Securities Corporation in Ridgewood, NY. in U.S. Development, from The Heller School for Social Policy, Brandeis University in Boston, MA. 2004 Seth Womack is a Football Coach and Teacher at Oklahoma Panhandle State University in Goodwell, OK. During the summer, Womack coached and also played on the offensive line and defensive line for the St. Polten Invaders in St. Polten, Austria. Tara Estabrooks received a Master’s in Health Administration from Washington University School of Medicine and is working on an Administrative Fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic. Danny Jackson graduated from the University of Missouri School of Medicine and is completing a residency in OB/GYN at Columbia Regional Hospital in Columbia, MO. Pete Miranti is a Business Consultant in the Law, Resources, and Finance Sector with Bearing Point in Washington, DC. Dave Norman is a freelance journalist for the paintball industry’s leading publications, an author, and a fiction writer. While at Westminster, he founded the Westminster Paintball Club. Norman lives in New York City, NY. Visit his website at: www.501paintballtips.com. with a Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Education from St. Louis University. Norton is an Emergency Room Physician Assistant at Alton (IL) Memorial Hospital. to Branch Rental Manager with Penske Truck Leasing in Springfield, MO. Marshel Sheperd is the Director Nick Staudenmyer is an of Marketing with First American Corporation in Orange County, CA. 2003 Shawn Ansley received a Master’s in Applied and Computational Mathematics from the University of Michigan. Ansley is the Assistant Vice President of Quantitative Analytics with Vice Capital Markets, Inc. in Novi, MI. Charles Wanyama is a Commissions Database Stephanie Parker was promoted 2006 Devin Bell is pursuing a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. Chapin Deel is a Property Insurance Adjuster with Farmers Insurance in Olathe, KS. Jared Genenbacher was awarded the Special Education Administrators Meeting Award in April 2006. Genenbacher is a Middle School Special Education Teacher with the Francis Howell School District in St. Charles, MO. Ryan Hobart is the Deputy Communications Director with the Missouri Secretary of State. Kristen (Leone) Jackson is an Enrollment Services Representative with Westminster College. Account Executive of Business Development with WBM Services in Columbia, MO. Jason Kirchner is an Auditor with Central Bank in Jefferson City, MO. 2005 Scott Langdon is a Client Bo Clapp is a Relationship Banking and Business Development Assistant with Boone County National Bank in Columbia, MO. Christopher Tate received a Master’s in International Development, with a concentration 21. Jennifer (Richter ‘97), Theron, Cate and Griffin Teter 22. Zora, Anna & Richard ‘98 AuBuchon 23. Tyler Schaper ‘98 24. Paige (age 5), Taylor (age 3 ½), Rhona and Dwight ‘98 Ternes 25. Casey (Clark) ‘05 and daughter Taylor Borovac Representative with Bank of Blue Valley in Olathe, KS. 21 Beau Peterson is an Accountant with CMC Steel, South Carolina Division in Cayce, SC. Serghei Prasol is an Audit Consultant with Pricewaterhouse Coopers Audit in Moscow, Russia. 23 22 24 25 WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 35 CLASSNOTES Eva Rader is the Elementary Vytas Stonis is a Media Agency Perry Fischer is the Manager at Bek’s 2007 Josh Harlow is an Associate with Instructional Technology Coach for the Liberty Public School District in Liberty, MO. Rader will handle the instructional technology for all of the nine elementary schools in the district. Representative with DJ MAG in Lithuania. at Washington University in St. Louis, MO. Laurence Rhodes is pursuing a Nick Diefenbach is an Enrollment Russell Anhalt is pursuing a law degree Master’s in Business Administration at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO. Services Representative with Westminster College. Elliott Schaum is a Wine Eric Feagles is a Customer Service Representative with Goody Goody Liquor in Dallas, TX. Representative with Air Wisconsin Airlines Corporation. Restaurant in Fulton, MO. Axiom Strategies Political Consulting in Kansas City, MO. Brandi Heinrich is a Loan Review Analyst with Central Bank in Jefferson City, MO. Jeremy Huelsing is a Financial Service Representative with MetLife in Chesterfield, MO. save the date Upcoming Events Upcoming Dates At a Glance October 17 Digger Phelps Lecture (ESPN Commentator & Legendary Notre Dame Basketball Coach) November 14 Missouri Contemporary Ballet at Westminster College November 18-19 Symposium on Democracy III - Citizenship in the Age of Globalization April 15 Undergraduate Scholars Forum Westminster students share their projects and research April 24-26 Alumni Weekend 2009 To find out more on these and other events visit www.westminster-mo.edu Emily Jarosz is a Tax Accountant with Milam & Associates in Tulsa, OK. Brad Langan is a Staff Auditor with Williams Keepers in Columbia, MO. Valerie Martinez is pursuing a Master’s in International Relations at Salve Regina University in Newport, RI. Bambi Cheva-Isarakul is pursuing Andrew Miller is pursuing a Master’s in Ryan Cook is a District Manager with Aldi in North Carolina. Jennifer Roehrs is pursuing a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine at A.T. Still University in Kirksville, MO. a Master’s in Development Studies at the Graduate Institute for International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland. Paul Moen is pursuing a Master’s in Nikolay Domashev is pursuing a Master’s in Social Anthropology at Central European University in Budapest, Hungary. Phillip Morales is a Science Teacher at Ashton Ellett is pursuing a Master’s in History at the University of Georgia in Athens, GA. Business Administration at the University of Central Oklahoma. Vianney High School in St. Louis, MO. Rainer Nsenki is a Business Analyst in Revenue Management with Embarq Corporation in Overland Park, KS. Chris Pilarski is an Accounts Manager with New Business Media in Oxenford, Australia. Elizabeth Richardson is pursuing Amy Fluker is pursuing a Master’s in History at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, MS. Stephanie Gordon is a Marketing Representative with John Deere in Moline, IL. Spencer Head is a Sales/Credit Manager a Juris Doctorate from the University of Arkansas School of Law and a Master’s in Environmental Law from Vermont Law School. Derick Heflin is a Teacher and Football Coach with Houston (MO) Public Schools. Ryan Veatch is a Science Teacher at Kelly Hossenlopp is a Management 2008 Cade House is a Central US Claims New Bloomfield (MO) High School. Mark Alexander is a System Engineer with Avande, Inc. in Houston, TX. Ali Aslah is the Coordinator for Economic Development with the Maldives Monetary Authority in Malé, Maldives. Rachel Becknell is an Assistant Language Teacher with the Japan Exchange and Teaching ( JET) Program. Dusty Booth works in Agency with Wells Fargo in St. Louis, MO. Adjuster Representative with American National Property & Casualty Company in Springfield, MO. Meaghan Jones is a Production Chemist with Sigma Aldrich in St. Louis, MO. James Kienker is pursuing a Master’s in Philanthropic Studies at Indiana University in Indianapolis. Missy Kopp is an Executive Team Leader with Target in St. Louis, MO. Chad Lane is a District Manager with Andrew Buxton is a Buyer of Branded Dylan B. Schram is a Management Shawn Campbell is pursuing a Doctorate in Mathematics at the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO. Niki Carver is pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of MissouriKansas City School of Pharmacy. Andrew Chambers is working in the Rotational Development Program at Edward Jones. Cara Scheidt is pursuing a Master’s in Occupational Therapy at St. Louis University. Westminster Book Corner Westminster alumni continue the legacy of learning as published authors of novels, biographies, textbooks and more. Check out these recent and upcoming titles: Jim Armstrong ’69 Now What: Discovering Your New Life and Career after 50 (2006) Trainee with Walgreens in St. Peters, MO. Development Program/Sales with State Farm in Overland Park, KS. Products with Anheuser-Busch, Inc. in St. Louis, MO. Divinity at Lexington Theological Seminary in Lexington, KY. Aldi in Saint Louis, MO. Trainee with Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Saint Louis, MO. Kate Sickendick is pursuing a Juris Doctorate at George Washington University School of Law in Washington DC. Dianna Townsand is a Revenue Distribution Analyst with Unigroup, Inc. in Fenton, MO. Angela Lehman is an Assistant Manager with Walgreens in Jefferson City, MO. Rev. Carlton Caldwell ’80 We are all Ministers, Moving Members from Pews to Purpose (2006) Dr. Gary Forrest ’65 Self-Disclosure in Psychotherapy and Recovery (in press) Five Stars: Missouri’s Most Famous Generals (2006), by Jim Muench ’86, was named as one of the three best books about Missouri during the Missouri Writers’ Guild Conference in Columbia, MO on April 12, 2008. Dave Norman ’04 501 Paintball Tips, Tricks, and Tactics (2008) We congratuate these authors and wish them continued success in their endevors. WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 37 BABYBLUEJAYS FACULTY/STAFF/FRIENDS Jeff Borengasser and wife Sarah welcome Xavier James Borengasser on December 14, 2007. Borengasser is the Tennis Coach at Westminster. Reverend Brad Sheppard and wife Reverend Terry Kukuk adopted Jadon Issac on November 12, 2007. They traveled to China’s Jiangsu Province to bring Jadon home to Mexico, MO. Reverend Sheppard is the Chaplain at Westminster College. Jadon is adjusting well to his new family and hometown. Amanda Stevens and husband Josh welcomed Samuel Prater Stevens on May 10, 2008. Samuel joins sister Katherine. The family resides in Fulton, MO where Amanda is the Wellness Coordinator at Westminster. 1972 Gary Lumsden and wife Nancy welcomed Charles Andrew Lumsden on January 8, 2008. The family resides in Palm Beach, FL where Lumsden is the CEO/ Owner of Area Marketing Associates, Inc. 1992 Will Blaik and wife Sherri welcomed Allison Katherine Blaik on July 3, 2008. Allison joins brother Mattox. The family resides in Oklahoma City, OK where Blaik is an Attorney with Pritchett, Snyder & Blaik. 1993 John and Dr. Jennifer (Lang) ’94 Schissel announce the birth of Beck James on December 12, 2007. Beck joins brother Jake. The family resides in Little Rock, AR where John is Vice President of Sales with Source Inc. and Jennifer is a Hospital Adminstrator/CEO with United Methodist Behavioral Hospital. 1994 EJ and Melissa (Burroughs) Karlberg announce the birth of Hansen Dale Karlberg on March 5, 2008. EJ is a Major in the Army and is assigned to the 41st Fires Brigade as the Brigade S3 and 38 Leadership fall 2008 will be deployed to Iraq. Melissa is a stay at home mom. Daniel ‘95 and Carol (Cross) Kroll announce the birth of Evan William Kroll on April 23, 2007. The family resides in Parkville, MO. Scott Stine and wife Lynn welcomed Emma Kathleen Stine on February 5, 2008. The family resides in Vincennes, IN where Stine is a Physician with the Medical Center of Vincennes. 1995 Kristin (Cope) Arnold and husband Todd welcomed Virginia Mae Arnold on November 15, 2007. The family resides in Charlotte, NC. Chet Lauck and Kerrie Liles Lauck welcomed Chester Harris Lauck IV on June 14, 2007 in Little Rock, AR. 1996 Carey (Clemons) and Eric Bailey Carey Wilson-Smith and husband Scott welcomed Davis Ruston Smith on February 5, 2008. Davis joins sister Avery (age 3). Wilson-Smith is the Physician Coordinator with Gastroenterology Associates in Little Rock, AR. 2000 Blake Cogbill and wife Allison welcomed Matthew Dunlap Cogbill on April 14, 2008. The family resides in Potomac Falls, VA. Cogbill is a Regional Marketing Director with Hartford Leaders in Wayne, PA. 2003 Julie (Slisz) and Robert ‘05 Gastler welcomed Andrew Slisz Gastler on February 2, 2008. The family resides in Columbia, MO where Robert is a graduate student in Mathematics at the University of Missouri-Columbia and Julie is a former Adjunct Instructor of Physics at Westminster College. welcomed Renn Jackson Bailey on April 23, 2008. 2006 Kristin (Huber) Davis and husband Daniel announce the birth of Owen Carter Davis on January 3, 2008. Owen joins siblings Abigail (age 7) and Emma (age 5). The family resides in Jefferson City, MO where Davis runs a home-based preschool. Emmanuel Amenuvor and wife Donna welcomed Daniel Eli Amenuvor on January 20, 2008. The family resides in Farmington, MN where Amenuvor is an Applications Programmer for Champion Air. Jennifer (Janson) Kirby and husband Charles welcomed Emma Leigh Kirby on September 25, 2007. Emma Leigh joins sister Abbey (age 2). The family resides in Houston, TX. 1998 Bobby Mather and wife Tiffany announce the birth of Dayton Michael Mather on December 31, 2007. The family resides in Edmond, OK where Mather is an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Oklahoma. 1999 Kolby Beich and wife Lisa announce the birth of Bentley Potter Beich on June 11, 2008. The family resides in Houston, TX. Bentley’s grandfather is Fritz Beich ‘69, and great grandfather is Jack Morton ‘47. BABY BLUEJAY PHOTO ALBUM (right) 1. Samuel Stevens 2. Virginia Arnold 3. Bently Beich 4. Jennifer (Lang) ‘94, John ‘93, Jake and Beck Schissel 5. Charles and Gary Lumsden 6. Allison Blaik 7. Matthew Cogbill 8. Davis and Avery Wilson-Smith 9. Evan Kroll 10. Renn Bailey 11. Andrew Gastler 12. Hansen Karlberg 13. Emma Kirby 14. Dayton Mather 15. Emma and Scott ‘94 Stine 16. Xavier Borengasser 17. Daniel Amenuvor 18. Reverend Terry Kukuk, Jadon and Reverend Brad Sheppard 2 1 3 4 5 8 6 7 10 11 9 15 12 16 13 14 17 18 WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 39 WEDDINGALBUM FACULTY/STAFF/FRIENDS Dale Ley III [1] married Katharine Johnson on June 7, 2008 in St. Louis, MO. The couple resides in Columbia, MO. Ley is the Multimedia Designer at Westminster College. 1992 Cory Ridenhour [11] married Suzanne Clark on October 6, 2007 in Jefferson City, MO. The couple resides in Columbia, MO where Ridenhour is the CEO of Ridenhour Management Services, LLC. 1995 John PritchetT [8] married Paige Chappell on April 19, 2008 in Austin, TX. The wedding party included Lance Zimmerman ’93, Kyle Newman ’93 and Brinton Payne ’96. The couple resides in Austin, TX where Pritchett is a Political Director with Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott. 1997 Trey Davis [13] married Paige Henry on December 31, 2007. The couple resides in Columbia, MO. Davis is the Vice President of Governmental Affairs for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce. Travis Sartain [10] married Mitzi White on April 26, 2008 in Dallas, TX. The wedding party included Ron Buchanan ’96, Kristen (Woodall) Howell ’96, Trey Settle ’97, Andrew Schendle ’00, Lauren Ryel ’01, Sam Smith ’01, Ryan Hataway ’02 and Brandon Schmidt ’03. The couple resides in Dallas, TX where Sartain is an Employee Benefits Broker with McQueary Henry Bowles Troy, LLP. 1998 Dena Sudar [6] married Scott Christensen on November 24, 2008 in Walsenburg, CO. After seven years in the Navy and two years at Idaho National Laboratory, Sudar is working on obtaining a teaching license in Colorado. The couple resides in Littleton, CO. 2000 Mark Stromblad [12] married Melissa Box ‘01 on May 10, 2008 in Tulsa, OK. The couple resides in St. Louis, 40 Leadership fall 2008 MO where Mark is a Sales Consultant with Physician Sales & Service and Melissa is an Account Executive with Musen & Steinbach. (Leible) Garwitz. The couple resides in Jefferson City, MO where Muenks is the Major Accounts Coordinator for the News Tribune. Laura Trimble [2] married Terrance 2006 Taylor on December 2, 2007 in Kansas City, MO. The couple resides in Kansas City, MO where Laura is pursuing a Master’s in Education at Rockhurst University. 2003 Maggie O’Donnell [3] married Michael Hofener on December 8, 2007 in Oklahoma City, OK. The wedding party included Christine (McCaul) & Jay Howard, Whitney (Kinnard) & Chad Backsen, Lauren Christmann, Brett Ellis, Lauren Humphrey, and Jordan (Bram) ’02 & Jeremy ’04 Teeple. The couple resides in Oklahoma City where O’Donnell is working towards a nursing degree. Valerie Stuart [9] married Joshua Adkins on October 13, 2007 in St. Louis, MO. The couple resides in Arnold, MO where Valerie is a Math Teacher at Seckman High School. Brennan VanMatre married Amanda Stock on October 27, 2007 in Arch Cape, OR. The couple resides in Columbia, MO where VanMatre is the Owner of VanMatre Landscape Design LLC. 2004 Ashley Hout married Ryan Alumbaugh on June 14, 2008 in Cole Camp, MO. The couple resides in Cole Camp, MO where Hout is a 6th Grade Science Teacher and Volleyball Coach for the Lone Jack (MO) School District. Dan Miller [5] married Sara Griffith ‘06 on March 15, 2008 in St. Louis, MO. The wedding party included Tim Miller ’02, Dan Dokovic, Phil Lee, Ryan Broedecker, Jeremy Teeple, Jay Howard ’03, Eva Rader ’06, Catie Vogeding ’06 and Laura Cohen ’06. The couple resides in Brentwood, MO where Miller is a Relationship Manager with Regions Bank and Griffith is a Communications Specialist with Anheuser-Busch. Sarah Muenks [4] married Adam Veile on October 13, 2007 in Loose Creek, MO. The wedding party included Kali Wright, Brooke ( Jackson) Mahar and Blaire Amy Hill married Josh Messerli on October 13, 2007 in California, MO. The couple resides in California, MO. Hill is a Physical Education Teacher with the Jamestown C-1 School District. 2007 Graham McGhee married Amie Dyer on June 7, 2008 in Kansas City, MO. The wedding party included Andrew Chambers ’08, Ryan Cook ’08, Jonathan Roop ’08 and Jeremy Huelsing. The couple resides in Lake Tapawingo, MO. McGhee is a Biology/Chemistry/Ecology Teacher with Lone Jack (MO) High School, and also coaches football and basketball. Jessica Lankford married Josh Moore on May 17, 2008 in Liberty, MO. The wedding party included Josh Harlow, Jeremy Huelsing, Ryan Cook ’08, Spencer Head ’08, Jeremy Roop ’08, Zach Stubbs, Lauren Daniels ’05, Jessie Prewitt ’05, Elizabeth Rigsby ’06 and Philip Lankford ’10. The couple resides in Kansas City, MO where Jessica is a Customer Service Sales Representative with Cramer Inc. and Josh is a Territory Manager with EcoLab. Michael Stahlman [7] married Kelly Shultz on May 24, 2008 in Columbia, MO. The wedding party included Zack Park ’08. Stahlman is pursuing a Doctorate in Agricultural Economics at the University of Missouri-Columbia. 2008 Brian Matthews married Tabitha Pitts ‘10 on May 25, 2008 in Moundville, MO. The wedding party included Andrew Revelle. The couple resides in Fulton, MO where Brian is a District Manager Trainee with Aramark and Tabitha continues her education at Westminster. 4 3 2 1 8 5 6 7 12 9 10 11 WESTMINSTER WEDDINGS PHOTO ALBUM 1. Dale and Katharine Ley 2. Laura (Trimble) ‘00 and Terrance Taylor 3. Maggie (O’Donnell) ‘03 and Michael Hofener 4. Sarah (Muenks) ‘04 and Adam Veile 5. Dan ‘04 and Sara (Griffith) ‘06 Miller 6. Dena (Sudar) ‘98 and Scott Christensen 7. Michael ‘07 and Kelly Stahlman 8. John ‘95 and Paige Pritchett 9. Valerie (Stuart) ‘03 and Joshua Adkins 10. Travis ‘97 and Mitzi Sartain 11. Cory ‘92 and Suzanne Ridenhour 12. Mark ‘00 and Melissa (Box) ‘01 Stromblad 13. Trey ‘97 and Paige Davis 13 WWW.WESTMINSTER-MO.EDU 41 INLOVINGMEMORY T hey were our classmates, our friends, brothers and sisters. Together we remember those who shared their lives with us and left behind hearts full of precious memories. Robert L. Pasley ‘33 of Fulton, MO on June 15, 2008. Pasley served in the US Army during WWII. After service to his country, he owned and operated Pasley Dairy for over 25 years and was a Board Member of the Farm Bureau and Water District #2. James D. Bassett ‘38 of Whittier, CA on October 8, 2007. He was a member of Phi Delta Theta. Bassett was an Accountant with E. B. Manning & Sons Beef Company until his retirement in 1983. John D. Covington ‘38 of Gulf Breeze, FL on April 24, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi. Covington achieved the rank of Captain in the US Army and was a retired Manager with Pepsi-Cola . Louis J. Linder ‘38 of Belleville, IL on May 5, 2008. He was a member of the Highlanders and on the swimming team. Linder served in the US Army under Douglas MacArthur at the invasion of the Philippines. After serving his country, he was a Research Chemist with Alcoa Aluminum for 25 years and was the Chemistry Lab Manager with Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, IL for 15 years. Harry H. Haeussler ‘40 of Los Altos, CA on May 17, 2008. He was a member of Kappa Alpha Order. After graduation, he joined the US Navy and served during WWII. Haeussler retired as a Captain in the US Naval Reserves and then was the Owner of K&H Bonded Plastics. Robert F. Schroeder ‘41 of Portland, OR on April 17, 2008. He was a member of the Highlanders. Schroeder served in the Marine Corps during WWII and after his service was a contractor in several areas of California. Captain Theodore R. Zickos ‘42 of Sheffield, AL on January 7, 2008. He was a member of Delta Tau Delta. Zickos received his Navy Commission from Notre Dame University in South Bend, 42 Leadership fall 2008 IN, served in WWII and was a Regimental Commander at the San Diego, CA Naval Base during the Korean War. He retired from the Naval Reserve in 1979 with the rank of Captain. Zickos was the Owner of Tri-Cities Poster Advertising Company in Sheffield, IN and was a past president of the Sheffield Rotary Club, a Paul Harris Fellow and a member of the Chamber of Commerce. William E. Backer, Jr. ‘43 of Fulton, MO on April 5, 2008. Backer was appointed to the Westminster Board of Trustees in 1985, received the Alumni Bill Backer, Jr. ‘43 Achievement Award in 1984 and the SGA Alumni Service Award in 1999 and served on the Fulton College Fund Board of Associates. Backer was the Chairman of the Board of Backer’s Potato Chip Co. In 1996, Backer opened the Auto World Museum which showcases over 86 rare automobiles from every decade of the 20th century. Robert W. Barnes ‘43 of Bella Vista, AR on April 18, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi and the basketball team. Barnes served in the Marine Corps during World War II and retired from a career in business in 1981. Glenn F. “Jack” Anderson Jr. ‘48 of Tulsa, OK on February 10, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi and the basketball team. Anderson was an Alumni Achievement Award winner in 1984 and served on the Westminster Board of Trustees. Anderson enlisted in the Naval Air Force and flew Corsairs off aircraft carriers during WWII. After serving his country, Anderson worked in the oil business, traded in real estate and raised champion Palominos and giant homing pigeons. His sons, Andy ’71 and George ’74, also attended Westminster. Edward N. Brown II ‘48 of Sikeston, MO on June 12, 2008. He was a member of Phi Delta Theta. After a semester at Westminster, Brown was recruited for the ROTC program at the Harvard School of Business. His education was interrupted by service to his country in the US Navy. Following his service, he enrolled at the University of Missouri and later returned to Westminster and graduated. Brown retired in 1994 as Manager and Co-Owner of Bertrand Cotton Co. William C. Burton, Jr. ‘49 of Bacliff, TX on September 25, 2007. He was a member of the Highlanders. Burton retired in 1986 as Vice President with National Association of Manufacturers and was a lifelong member of the Rotary Club of Houston. John F. Cannon III ‘49 of Webster Groves, MO on May 8, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi. Rawle A. Alloway, Jr. ‘50 of Cincinnati, OH on March 21, 2008. He was a member of the Highlanders, track and swimming teams. Alloway was a retired pharmaceutical salesman, a Master Mason in the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio and a member of the Ancient Scottish Rite. A. Lee Booth, Jr. ‘50 of St. Louis, MO on March 16, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi. Lee was a proud US Navy veteran, former owner of Webster Groves Insurance Agency, and a member and past president of the Webster Groves Rotary Club. Dean F. Weeks ‘50 of Cape Coral, FL on December 15, 2007. He was a member of Delta Tau Delta. Weeks served two tours of duty in the US Navy and was a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Weeks was a retired Owner/ Broker of Dean F. Weeks Insurance Agency located in Aurora, IL. Dr. William C. Cleveland ‘51 of Leawood, KS on June 7, 2008. He was a member of Sigma Chi. After graduating from Westminster, he was drafted into the US Army and was a veteran of the Korean War. Cleveland transferred to the US Air Force Reserves and retired in 1986 with a rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Cleveland completed his education at University of Missouri-Kansas City Dental School. After retiring from private practice, he worked for the University of Missouri-Kansas City Dental School as an Associate Professor. Reverend Franc M. Guthrie ‘55 of Columbia, MO on February 13, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi, Omicron Delta Kappa Honorary society, and the Westminster Intercollegiate Debate Team. Guthrie also served on Westminster’s Intra-Fraternity Council, during which he organized the Christmas campaign to deliver food to needy families in the community. Guthrie graduated Summa Cum Rev. Franc Guthrie ‘55 Laude as Valedictorian and was awarded the Fulbright Scholarship, which enabled him to study divinity at St. Mary’s College in Scotland. After graduating from Westminster, Guthrie earned a Bachelor of Divinity from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Kentucky. He received a Presbyterian Church Board of Christian Education Scholarship for his scholastic record and the Drosden Trophy. Guthrie completed a Master’s of Theology at Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, VA. Guthrie received the Alumni Achievement Award in 2005. Guthrie was preceded in death by his brother, Rev. Robert Guthrie ’41 and survived by his brother, John Guthrie ’45, son-in-law, James Muench ’86, and his nephew James Guthrie ’90. John R. Gaebe ‘56 of St. Louis, MO on February 10, 2008. He was President of the Alumni Council from 1982 - 84, and received the Alumni Award of Merit in 1986. Gaebe received his law degree from St. Louis University and was John Gaebe ‘56 a Partner with the Stolar Partnership in St. Louis, MO. Michael A. Conine ‘59 of Vinita, OK on December 6, 2007. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi. Conine was a retired Leasing Manager with Southpark Lincoln Mercury in Tulsa, OK. Dr. William A. Pogue ‘60 of Boise, ID on April 25, 2008. He was a member of the Skulls of Seven. Pogue received a PhD in Medicine from the University of Missouri and as a young physician joined the Army and reached the rank of Major. After service to his country, Pogue started his own Family Practice which served many people in rural and urban Idaho. Joseph B. Rathfon ‘61 of Salem, OR on December 27, 2007. He was a member of the Highlanders. Rathfon was a Mechanical Engineer and worked for several aerospace and computer firms in San Diego, CA. Rathfon moved to Salem, OR in 1990 to become a Consultant with Pacific Northwest Systems. Dr. David L. Wilkinson of Des Peres, MO on January 26, 2008. He was a member of Sigma Chi. Wilkinson served over 25 years in private practice in neurosurgery in the St. Louis, MO area, was past president of Missouri State Board of Healing Arts, past treasurer of Missouri State Medical Association and a member of the St. Louis Metropolitan Medical Society. Reverend Ronald H. Baker ‘63 of Edwardsville, IL on July 2, 2007. Baker was a Minister in the Edwardsville, IL area. Willard S. Folsom ‘65 of Foster City, CA on June 6, 2008. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi. Folsom retired from United Airlines after 36 years of service and was a member of the Sports Car Club of America, Olympic Country Club and the Coyote Point Yacht Club. Stephen K. Mills ‘69 of Tulsa, OK on December 20, 2007. Mills served as Chairman of the Board with KENCO Engineering Company. Zach D. Taylor, Jr. ‘69 of Oklahoma City, OK on January 4, 2008. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Taylor served as Executive Director of the Association of Central Oklahoma Government in Oklahoma City and received the 2006 Administrator of the Year Oklahoma Chapter Award. Michael W. Mahanes Sr. ‘77 of Moore, SC on May 24, 2008. He received the Dr. E.C. Humphery Scholarship. Mahanes was the Media Director and Training Supervisor at MEMC Electronic Materials Co. in Spartanburg, SC. Daniel L. Estill ‘80 of Jefferson City, MO on December 18, 2007. Estill worked in Tech Support for the Jefferson City Public School District. He was very active in Boy Scouts of America, where he was an Eagle Scout and attended two national and international Jamborees. Hamilton “Ham” M. Eubanks, Sr. ‘80 of Little Rock, AR on May 25, 2008. He was a member of Sigma Chi. Eubanks was a Mortgage Broker with Citypro in Little Rock, AR. Tamila R. (Farmer) Grimaldo ‘84 of Manila, AR on January 12, 2008. She was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. Grimaldo was an English Instructor at Arkansas Northeastern College. We want to hear from you! The Office of Alumni and College Relations produces a monthly electronic newsletter–Columns Connection, which has the latest news on campus, events and sports schedules. If you are interested in receiving Columns Connection, please send you email address to [email protected] or fill out this form and check the box “I am interested in Columns Connection.” As always, we love to receive your news–about work, travels, family–for Class Notes, the magazine’s most-read section. To share your news, complete this form and send it to the address below, or simply email us at [email protected]. NAME CLASS YEAR EMAIL NEWS I am interested in Columns Connection! Office of Alumni and College Relations • 501 Westminster Avenue • Fulton, MO 65251-1299 • www.westminster-mo.edu LASTIMPRESSION (left) SWAT team enters Coulter Science Center. (above, from top) Stefanie Kavanagh experiences first hand what would happen to a student with a serious injury. F or 26 minutes on a rainy Wednesday morning September 3, the Westminster community experienced what it might be like to have a shooter on campus as they staged a simulation to test the College’s emergency plan. At 8:30 a.m., a 9-1-1 call went out to the Fulton authorities and the campus emergency siren began to wail. Five minutes later, members of the Fulton Police and Fire Departments were on the scene at the Coulter Science Center where an actor portraying the shooter had entered a classroom and designated six students as injured. One minute later a SWAT team arrived to help capture the shooter and move uninjured students to a safe location. By the time 26 minutes had passed, the “victims” had been taken to Callaway County Hospital and the drill ended. “We have spent the past year or so developing procedures for a variety of emergency situations, and we’ve done 44 Leadership fall 2008 tabletop simulations for tornado and ice storm scenarios,” says Westminster President Dr. Barney Forsythe. “But this one we wanted to do live.” The drill was considered a huge success with only minor communications problems which are now in the process of being fine tuned. The State Emergency Management Agency has indicated Westminster is the first Missouri college or university to conduct a live simulation campus-wide. “We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure campus community,” says President Forsythe. “We will continue to perform these drills as necessary to ensure our procedures are sound and everyone knows how to respond appropriately to emergencies.